Money isn’t the most pleasant subject, but it’s necessary. Most people need it - it’s why we have jobs.

Being that rod building is my job I get to do fun things to make money. But being that it’s a new year it’s a good time to review and make new plans for rod building, including reviewing the making money part. NOT FUN, and something I avoid if possible. In fact, I’ve said before that if I could build rods for free I’d do it, I just want to create simple, classic rods for the love of fishing (mine and yours). But since this is my full-time job, I also have to make a living and support my family and my fishing habits.

So, in light of that, I am announcing that I’m raising my prices. All new rods for sale will be listed at the new rates. Custom rod orders placed as of February 7, 2020 and thereafter will be quoted at the new rates, and a $300 deposit (non-refundable) will be required.

To make things better and end on a high note, I’ll share a few pics of the mid-60 degree Monday from earlier this week. In the middle of winter. The fish were scarce and in winter mode but it sure was nice to be out wandering around in the woods with a good friend and a good dog and not freezing. Spring will be here before we know it and the fish will be looking up.

And just because it’s stuck in my head, here’s what Pink Floyd says about Money:

Money, get away
Get a good job with good pay and you're okay
Money, it's a gas
Grab that cash with both hands and make a stash
New car, caviar, four star daydream
Think I'll buy me a football team

Money, get back
I'm all right Jack keep your hands off of my stack
Money, it's a hit
Don't give me that do goody good bullsh*t
I'm in the high-fidelity first class traveling set
And I think I need a Lear jet

Money, it's a crime
Share it fairly but don't take a slice of my pie
Money, so they say
Is the root of all evil today
But if you ask for a raise it's no surprise that they're
Giving none away, away, away