1.        Join the rod sections using a rotating motion and then firmly seat the sections – do not use the guides for leverage.  Even a slightly loose ferrrule can and will break your rod.  As you are fishing, check for a tight fit throughout the day.  Always hold the rod by the grips, especially when fighting a fish, setting the rod down, or handing the rod to someone.

 

2.        Whenever the rod is under load (bent) hold it by the grips, which distribute load stresses, and do not touch the blank.

 

3.        Protect your rod by not “highsticking,” i.e., high vertical hook setting.  This causes the tip to flex too far and either immediately breaks or so weakens your rod that it will break at a later time.  Your rod will break in a characteristic manner, which is excluded from our warranty.

 

4.        Help your rod on the hookset by (a) sharpening your hooks; (b) reeling down on the fish; and, (c) using a short side sweeping motion to set the hook.

 

5.        Do not lift fish with the rod – land them by hand, gaff, or net.  Never lift anything which exceeds the lure weight rating for your rod.

 

6.        Make sure your reel drag is working smoothly and do not exceed the maximum recommended drag for your TravelRods.

 

7.        For maximum leverage, fight fish with the rod between the 8 and 10 o’clock positions.  Also, try to maintain a line position which is over the fish’s back – this allows you to pull back on its head to disorient it for a quick finish to the fight.

 

8.        Do not attempt to free snags with your rod – especially if you use braided line which exceeds your rod’s line rating.  Your rod will break in a characteristic manner, which is excluded from our warranty.

 

9.        Disassemble your rod with a clockwise motion – do not use the guides for leverage.

 

10.     Wash with water (no warmer than lukewarm) and mild soaps, and thoroughly dry before storing.

 

11.     NEVER wax or apply a substance other than Trondak Ferrule Lube© to the ferrules.  Waxes hold dirt, sand, etc., which grind the interior ferrule joint.

 

12.   A word about braided lines:  do not exceed the recommended drag range for your rod – and watch out for tip wrapping (especially in the wind).