This past year has been a very busy one in the rod shop. I was finally able to introduce a low cost, high-quality Prudential Series graphite fly rod model. So far they seem to be a success based on what folks have told me about them. I was also able to experiment with some different rod tapers this past year, too. This helps me to hone my craft & continue to learn more about how certain things in a rod taper effect the finished rod. However, I didn't get to do as much fooling around with tapers as I planed to because you folks kept me pretty busy - for which I'm grateful.
Over the past twelve months I've had the privilege to make some very nice custom fly rods for folks. These anglers had incredible vision for what they wanted their fly rod to be. I was honored to help them realize that vision & make it a reality. From graphite to fiberglass & bamboo fly rods you folks allowed me to make some very beautiful rods this past year. I'm proud of every one of them.
As I look back over the past year what I'm most grateful for is all the new people I've met & come to know. So many of you from all around the world reached out to me this past year. I'm blown away to think how the internet has connected us all. I can honestly say that I have friends in many places around the world. This sport of fly fishing is really amazing in how it can bring folks from all different walks of life together.
Going forward into the New Year, I want to continue trying out different rod tapers. These will be rods I build just to see how certain aspects work out & a place where I can try some of the ideas I have bouncing around in my head. No matter how long I've been at this rod making, I must never stop learning about it. I want to be always improving my skills & knowledge. This year, I hope to try out some ideas I have about multi-piece rods in particular. I'm also planing to work on some new ways of making & designing rod components, especially reel seats. I can't wait to get to work on these projects.
Next year also marks a special one in the rod shop. When 2014 starts I will have been making fly rods professionally for over ten years!!! I'll be celebrating this achievement in different ways throughout the year with all of you.
I'm looking forward to next year with hope & anticipation. As the years go by one thing hasn't changed for me & that is how blessed I am to do what I do. I love making fly rods & working with you folks. Everyday I look forward to going to work. Sure, some days are more challenging than others but I still have an overwhelming passion for making fly rods. All of this is because of you. Without you folks in the fly fishing community none of what I do is possible. I thank each & every one of you.
So as another year begins, know that whatever challenges might lie ahead, I plan to be right here continuing to make the best fly rods possible & to be providing you all with the highest level of service. May the New Year be your best one yet!!