Build It Your Way: Andy Dear on Rod Building, Ego, and Experience

In this episode of the Mastering Rod Building Podcast, Bill Falconer talks with longtime rod builder and product developer Andy Dear about craftsmanship, creativity, and developing a personal rod-building point of view. Andy explains why his approach centers on performance, simplicity, and creating a deeper connection to fishing rather than adding decoration that does not serve a purpose. The conversation covers Andy’s background in rod building, woodworking, music, carbon-fiber grips, finish development, and the industry innovators and memorable personalities who influenced the craft. Bill and Andy also discuss ego, social-media arguments, differing building methods, and why rod builders should focus on executing their work well, respecting other approaches, and enjoying the community surrounding the craft. The episode also includes details on the 2026 Mastering Rod Building Seminar, happening August 14–16 at the Orange Beach Event Center at The Wharf in Orange Beach, Alabama. For more information, email Jack Barron at jbarron@anglersresource.net or call 251-943-4491. Mastering Rod Building is brought to you by Anglers Resource — your source for genuine Fuji Tackle components. Where to buy genuine FUJI®️ rod components (Area Distributors) Japan: FIRST Corporation — https://first-fuji.co.jp/ • mail@first-fuji.co.jp American Continent (North & South America): Anglers Resource — https://anglersresource.net/ • info@anglersresource.net Oceania: Frogleys Offshore — https://fujitackle.com.au • enquiries@frogleysoffshore.com.au Spain/Czech/Finland/Sweden/Estonia/Latvia/Poland/Denmark/Belgium/Germany/Netherlands/Ireland/Luxembourg/France/Portugal/UK/Norway/Belarus/Ukraine/Russia:: CALICO S.A. (Kalikunnan) — https://kalikunnan.com/ • fuji@calico.es Europe: MAJORA Intelligent Fishing (FUJI Tackle Italy) — https://www.fujitackle.it • info@fujitackle.it Asia: KOWA Company, Ltd. — fujitackle@kowa.co.jp