How to Extend the Fly Blank Switch Rod

Switch rods take their name from the dual purpose use. Switch rods are made for fly fishing, and are useable with one or two hands for the cast. In addition, the switch rods let you fly fish cast using conventional gear and line. Extending a switch rod blank is a matter of joining the successive rod blanks to the switch rod blank before it. Many makers produce switch rod blanks, but most come in a standard set of diameters.

Instructions

    • 1

      Set out the switch rod blanks on a work bench and arrange them going from widest diameter (at the cast handle) to the thinnest.

    • 2

      Push each successive size smaller into the larger diameter switch rod blank. Continue until the tip of the rod is reached (where the rod guide -- the metal loop -- is at the direct tip on the rod blank.) If your blanks do not have line guide, continue to add blanks until you reach your desired rod length. Common lengths are 8 feet, 8 1/2 feet and 9 feet.

    • 3

      Align the fish guides (the metal loops) running down the length of the switch rod.