ARB Rods are In-Bound!
We have word that some builders have already completed their ARB sample rods. Great news! We even have pix of one that has us truly excited to see more. Look for some rod-builder eye candy here later today…
(Update: We received some quick pix from Bill at Salty Dawg Custom Rods. This is the rod he’s sending in for the ARB program. We think it looks great in the photos, and we are truly excited to see it in-hand. Thanks, Bill!)
It’s nice to see a rod blank manufacturer working alongside the rod builders like this, scratching each others backs. This is how you build long term relationships with your customers. NIce work Bill!
Rob—Thanks for the comment and the good words. North Fork is hoping that the ARB program is viewed as a cooperative marketing and customer (that would be the rod-buying angler) awareness tool, not as a one-way street. The more business that custom makers can get, the better it is for everyone who is involved in both blanks and builds. As evidenced by Bill’s work above, I’d say that those builders who are choosing to participate are creating some lovely—and memorable—calling cards.
My name is Chad Powell. I live in Swan Valley, Id. Southfork of
the Snake River. My Rod building company is Called PCR , Powell
Custom Rodbuilding. I have been building custom rod for 25 YEARS.
I would like to get involved in Garys ARB program. I have built
hundred of Loomis rods over the years. Im excited about Garys outlook
on his new venture. I have downloaded the ARB application, But need some help on aquiring a blank for approval Rod. My new web site
http://www.snakeriverrods.com is under construction but I do have some photos posted for your viewing on that site.
Hi Chad—Check out the distributor list over in the right-hand sidebar, they should be able to get you what you need. If you are looking for fly blanks, be patient just a little bit longer (there was a mandrel switch midway through development, so a whole new series of butt sections had to be/is being thoroughly tested). Hoping to have some of the trout/light salmon/light salt fly blanks in December.
The ARB rods, as you may know, will end up being a part of the North Fork booth at shows and so forth, basically offering in-the-hand advertising for those who choose to participate in the program. For North Fork, being able to directly show exceptional art and craft on its blanks creates a win/win for everyone—including those who are looking for a custom rodbuilder to meet their needs.
Thanks so much for your interest, Chad.
Really looking forward to the fly rod blanks coming out so I can get my ARB rod done and in your hands…plus I already have a customer when they DO arrive!
Buzz