Not too long ago I had a client request a Barick Custom Switch rod. This particular customer didn’t want any ordinary rod, instead he wanted to stand out. Something funky, loud and of high performance were a must and that’s exactly what he received.
In order to create a loud funky design I had to resort to using EVA instead of cork for the grips of this rod. The EVA I used however needed to be of the highest quality so the highest density grip EVA was used. It has the same firmness as FLOR grade cork and non of the disadvantages. This material will last a lot longer, clean off easier and is much more durable. Makes you wonder why it’s not used on commercial Fly rods more often, hmmmm.
Red and Blue EVA was used to create a nice blend with the Deep Blue 12′, 4-5wt, TFO Deercreek blank.
To finish of the design an ALPS Gunsmoke coloured alloy double lockup nut seat and the super strong ALPS Diamond Coated 316 Stainless snake guides were used and bound in a rich Monza Red thread coloured wrap.
This was a great build to do and the client was more than happy with the outcome and it showed during a fishing trip out in the West of Sydney hunting the notorious Carp.
