One of the joys I receive from tenkara is the ability to fish different rods on any given outing. Some tenkara fishers think this is heresy, holding tightly to the "simplicity is best" model. I too like the simplicity of tenkara, but I am also a gear head and therefore like to explore different rods, with different lines on any given outing.
On most outing I'll usually carry two rods. But sometimes, when I'm exploring new waters, I'll try to carry a few rods, just to have all of my bases covered. In carrying these rods I don't generally use the original rod sleeve or tubes, as these must remain in excellent condition in case I decide to sell the rod. Therefore I needed a way to carry more than one rod, of varying collapsed length, and yet keep them protected.
Talking to my wife, and reviewing a prototype from another angler, I bought some inexpensive duck cloth, 1 inch webbing, some plastic buckles and such. I came up with a wrap that can hold up to eight rods. These rods can be the same collapsed length, or varying lengths. They are held in place by elastic straps, and are held tightly. I designed the wrap to allow the fisher to orient the rods in two different configurations depending on preference. One way is traditional, with all the handles oriented the same way. The other, my prefer method, is with the handles alternating with the tips. This second way reduces the bulk on one side of the wrap, created by handles.
The rods are slipped into the elastic holders, the ends of the wrap are clipped together, then the wrap is rolled and tied. I prefer ties to a buckle since the tie length is easily modified depending on how many rods are in the wrap.
The wrap can then be used as is, or slid into a 4" rod tube for more protection.
It's very nice and easy to make. I'm sure there would be many different variations but this design works well for me.
On most outing I'll usually carry two rods. But sometimes, when I'm exploring new waters, I'll try to carry a few rods, just to have all of my bases covered. In carrying these rods I don't generally use the original rod sleeve or tubes, as these must remain in excellent condition in case I decide to sell the rod. Therefore I needed a way to carry more than one rod, of varying collapsed length, and yet keep them protected.
Talking to my wife, and reviewing a prototype from another angler, I bought some inexpensive duck cloth, 1 inch webbing, some plastic buckles and such. I came up with a wrap that can hold up to eight rods. These rods can be the same collapsed length, or varying lengths. They are held in place by elastic straps, and are held tightly. I designed the wrap to allow the fisher to orient the rods in two different configurations depending on preference. One way is traditional, with all the handles oriented the same way. The other, my prefer method, is with the handles alternating with the tips. This second way reduces the bulk on one side of the wrap, created by handles.
The rods are slipped into the elastic holders, the ends of the wrap are clipped together, then the wrap is rolled and tied. I prefer ties to a buckle since the tie length is easily modified depending on how many rods are in the wrap.
The wrap can then be used as is, or slid into a 4" rod tube for more protection.
It's very nice and easy to make. I'm sure there would be many different variations but this design works well for me.
This is a very good idea for the angler who wants to keep his rods tidy without buying individual tubes. This solution is also very interesting for travels as it can avoid the wight and volume of several tubes. Thanks for sharing Tom!
ReplyDeleteThis is an AWESOME idea! Super practical and easy to use! You and your wife make a great team :)
ReplyDeleteGood job, Tom! You ended up with a design similar to the original prototype created by ZimmerBuilt for John Vetterli. The one you saw in Utah was a second prototype of sorts. I like a couple features on yours. I think the final product will be a combo of all three . . .
ReplyDelete