Although your rod is covered by our Unconditional Lifetime Warranty against breakage, here are a few tips to ensure a longer life and maximum performance on the water:

FERRULE ASSEMBLY: Grasp the two rod sections close to the ferrule (without touching the guides) and push them together so that they are slightly misaligned and only partially tight, then secure the pieces with a downward twisting motion so that the dots are aligned between the two sections. To disassemble the rod, twist the pieces in the opposite direction while gently pulling outward. This procedure will ensure a tight, strong connection and a smooth transfer of energy between the different sections of the rod. If the ferrule slips excessively during casting, a small amount of paraffin or even household candle wax can solidify the connection. Note that the assembled ferrule should have a gap of 1/8-1/4", which allows for wear over many years of fishing.

PROPER USE OF SLIDE BAND REEL SEATS: If your rod has a downlocking slide band reel seat, the most secure way to seat your reel will be similar to the ferrule assembly described above. Instead of just pushing the slide band straight down on the foot of the reel, use a slight downward twisting motion.

PREVENTING ROD BREAKAGE:

1. Try to keep from nicking the rod with hard or sharp objects (rocks, weighted flies, split shot, etc.) as this can damage the graphite fibers so much that breakage is inevitable.

2. When pulling on a snagged fly with a heavy tippet, point the rod at the snag and pull backward until the leader breaks or the fly dislodges rather than yanking upward with the rod.

3. While playing larger fish in heavy moving water, apply lateral pressure instead of forcing the fish upward in the water column, especially when the fish is close to being landed (this not only protects the rod, but is also a more effective fish-fighting technique in moving water).

4. When stringing your rod, fold the end of the fly line in two and pull it and the leader straight through the guides without bending the rod.

5. Finally, remember that most broken fly rods are victims of car doors, windows, and fishermen's feet, rather than actual fishing circumstances.

EFFECTS OF WATER ON ROD: Remember to dry off your rod before putting it away. Even freshwater can corrode the finish on a rod when stored wet inside the case and liner. If you fish in salt water, it is especially important to rinse the rod with fresh water and dry it before storage.