Rod Tubes

Fly Rod Tubes

Traditionally Fly rods have been protected by aluminium tubes and I have recommended those made by REC in the States. In the UK only anodised thin gauge tube have been available with fairly gaudy coloured anodised caps. These tubes also suffer the disadvantage of only coming in standard sizes.

I have been planning to make my own tubes for a long time and recieve frequent enquiries, it is only pressure of work that has prevented me offering custom made tubes. The pressure still remains but I have managed to make a prototype tube with which I am now happy.

The pictures and dsecriptions below describe what I can now offer.

I am making tubes in two sizes 1 3/4" and 1 5/8" OD both in 16 swg tubing. That is 1.6mm thick which is more than 50% thicker than readily available tubes. The larger diameter will take a 3 piece or a two tip rod or a standard 2 piece. The smaller diameter is a snug fit for a two piece rod.

End caps are machined from 1/4" wall aluminium tube, given a knurled finish and fitted with polished hardwood infill externally (Ebony in this case)and cork rod protectors internally. The blank end is fitted with a turned hardwood plug fitted with a felt pad internally. The Aluminium tube is given a "brush" finish and a thin coat of protective lacquer.

The removable end cap is held in place with a pair of O rings. These allow the cap to be readily removed by twisting but not with a straight pull so the cap is secure in transit. As well as offering a good seal this cap detail allows unobstructed access to the open tube end.

Tubes will be supplied mated with a straight rod bag (no ties just a hanging loop)and made to the correct length to suit the rod.

In designing the tubes the prime objective was to protect the rod inside. Everett Garrisons tubes were held in high regard in this respect and I have used a similar gauge of tube.

Above is the crude load test on a bare tube. That is a Peugeot Partner 2 litre diesel by the way. Below is the result, one shallow dent, not bad as it took me half a dozen attempts driving back and forth over the tube until I got it central! I would not advise you to try it with Cordura covered pvc.

Alternatives and cost

The tube as shown above retails at £40, when bought with a rod. A more economical model is available with a turned hardwood end cap costing £33.

The tubes can be made in any length to suit the range of fly rods that I make and in the two diameters as noted above, the price is the same.

Caps and butt ends can be made sealed as shown above or provided with ventilation holes as preferred.