Refinishing rods

[brucehookedup]

I have 2 10’ StCroix diver that are probably 35 plus yrs old. I love them. the guides still look good, but the reel seats, handle and the overall finish is in tough shape. I would like to find someone to refinish them. Of course they don’t make  that blank anymore. Hope someone has an answer. Text or call me 585-7five0-3onesix4
 

[leadcore troller]

It can be done but not cost affective. I've done many rods like your talking about.  Probably $30 per rod for parts then add labor and your up around $50 to $75 per rod .  Are you looking for aluminum or graphite reel seats, cork or foam grips. If your serious send me some pics on IM and I can give you a quote. I can send you some pics of rods I've done handles on, been building rods over 45 years.

[John E Powell]

Before you decide to go through with it, run a Q-tip through each guide and the rod tip. It is highly unlikely a diver rod of that age doesn't need a new set of guides. 

 

If you decide to proceed, consider spiral-wrapping the guides. 

[leadcore troller]

John I usually use cotton balls, but yes I do that before I get started. 

[mr 580]

I have a number of older St Croix and Ugly Sticks that I really like as well.  I’ve refinished the rod and replaced some guides myself as winter projects.  If the rod needed reel seat and grip repair, I’d replace the rod just from a dollar and cents perspective.  Probably buy a decent replacement for what parts and materials cost not even considering labor.

[AnglingAddict]

I did a set of Daiwa Eliminator Diver rods for a friend last year - had some sentimental value as they were his grandfathers.   Pretty much have to strip the blank down and start over.  Had way more into it in materials than you could buy a new comparable rod for - and once you factor in labor it will start to get more expensive.  Rods turned out great and hopefully he gets another 30 years out of them.

[Rippin'Line]

And they came out awesome!