We all know that having something that fits us correctly is what we prefer. Whether it is shoes, a pair of pants, our driver's seat setting in our car or truck, or our fishing rod. Something made to fit our unique size, shape, and preferences is superior.
There are many fine rods out there built by some very good companies. The problem is these companies all need to balance what can be produced fast, at reduced costs, and that will work adequately for the majority of average fishermen and women. What is lost in this process of mass production you ask?
First of all the rod blank is not set up to take advantage of the natural "spine" of the rod blank. That is the location of the starting point and ending point of the the rolled graphite sheet used to make the rolled rod blank. Increasing rod blank loading for casting and increased fighting strength can be obtained by finding the rod blank spine and thus positioning the guides to take advantage of this property. The rod companies that produce rods for the beginner and professional fisherman alike do not take the time to build rods around the blank spine. It is just a case of economics. This is something that Becky will do and considers it part of the foundation of building a custom fitted rod.
Second is the number of guides and the guide spacing. Once again a factory produced rod will take into account the cost and time it takes to locate and mount each guide. They often skimp on the quality of guides and the number of guides to make the average rod hit a certain price point. Is this important? Well if you only want to catch bluegills at Uncle John's pond with your 10 year old probably not. However if you are spending a week or two of hard earned vacation and more than a few bucks to catch some trophy Walleye or Bass you bet it makes a difference! Look at your current fishing rod. If it happens to be 6' 6" to 7" long you should have 9 to 10 guides to minimize line slap, increase casting efficiency and accuracy, and insure fighting strength when you hook the big one's. Becky will offer you a wide array of guides from a number of professional and proven suppliers. She then utilizes a well known guide placement graph which takes into account the flex and power of the particular rod blank you have selected to insure the number of guides and the guide placement is optimum for your rod and for your intended use. Feedback from Buffalo Creek customers over the years has been overwhelmingly positive with regard to sensitivity and rod performance. Most reply that their Buffalo Creek Rod is now their go to favorite.
Other differences that can be found in a personalized fishing rod can include custom handles to fit your hand. Every try to wear a pair of gloves that are too small? The same goes for rod handles. One size does not fit all.
Guide wrapping procedures and multiple bonding coats of flexible epoxy are carefully done one at a time. Done by hand and cautiously tied and terminated to insure you won't lose a guide when you are about to land that trophy fish. Once again not mass produced or dependent on whats "good enough" for the market.
Finally is that custom look. Your one of a kind masterpiece. Special thread colors, handle materials, reel seat choices, distinctive graphics, etc. Becky also specializes in techniques like feathers laminated on the rod blank, custom thread work or weaving, inlay/burned images/carvings in the handle, silver work, etc. The only limit is your imagination. Check out the picture gallery on the Buffalo Creek Rods home page.
It all boils down to the little things with a custom rod. It takes time to build something special. The big name fishing rod companies don't have time and don't think the average fisherman or women will care or notice. They are into selling lots of fishing rods. They are not interested in your ultimate fishing experience. Maybe it is time to treat yourself to a custom built rod. Either from Buffalo Creek Rods or from one of the many other custom rod buildings out there. Most reputable builders are members of the Custom Rod Builders Guild. Becky has been a long time Guild member and has also served on their national board.
So why don't you consider a custom build rod for this coming season? You will never be sorry you decided to treat yourself to the best.