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Mastering Rod Building

Bill Falconer

Discover the art and craft of rod building with host Bill Falconer. Get insider tips from experienced rod builders, industry insiders, and experienced anglers on building custom fishing rods with the latest trends. Learn how to match technique-specific fishing rods with different fishing conditions and how to maintain and repair them.

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  • 25 episodes
  • fortnightly
  • Avg 1 hr 9 min
  • English

Episodes 25

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  • Dec 22, 2025 · 41 min

    Rod Recipes – Drop Shot Rods with Easton Fothergill

    In this episode of the Mastering Rod Building Podcast, host Bill Falconer sits down with Bassmaster Classic champion Easton Fothergill to dive deep into advanced bass fishing strategies. Easton shares expert insights on drop shot rods, essential gear setups, finesse techniques, and real-world tournament experiences, including his recent run at the Skeeter Saltwater Redfish Series. Discover pro tips on choosing the right drop shot rig, fishing structure like docks, grass, and heavy cover, and how these tactics help anglers succeed at the highest level. Easton also talks about his journey after winning the Bassmaster Classic, sponsorship opportunities, and new developments in fishing gear with Strike King. If you’re looking to up your bass fishing game with proven techniques and industry-leading advice, tune into this episode! 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

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  • Dec 11, 2025 · 1 hr 15 min

    Rodfathers: Todd Vivian — The Legacy, Mentorship & Future of Rod Building

    In this episode, we sit down with legendary rod builder and educator Todd Vivian, a driving force in the world of custom fishing rod building, rod-building innovation, and craft preservation. Todd shares how he got started in the industry, the early challenges that shaped his skills, and the moment he realized rod building would become his life’s work. He opens up about his creative process—from design concept to finished custom rod—and discusses the philosophies behind his signature style, known for its balance, precision, and durability. Todd also reflects on key milestones in his career, his most memorable builds, and the unique client requests that pushed his creativity. The episode honors influential mentors like Al Jackson, diving into his contributions to the craft and the importance of mentorship in preserving rod-building heritage. Todd closes by revealing current projects, upcoming workshops, and the advice he hopes future builders will carry forward as they develop their own craft and legacy in the custom rod-building community. 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

    • Transcript
  • Nov 25, 2025 · 55 min

    Impressions That Last - Turning The Catch Into Art

    Join host Bill Falconer on the Mastering Rod Building Podcast as he welcomes Nikki Paschen, renowned Gyotaku (Japanese fish printing) artist, ceramic specialist, and owner of Nautical Paschens, along with her collaborator Jen Cox. Dive into the vibrant world of Gyotaku fish printing on the Gulf Coast as Nikki and Jen share their journey from yacht detailing to creating stunning fishing art, apparel, and fishing memorabilia for anglers and boaters. Hear unique stories behind printing rare species like blue marlin and lionfish, discover tips for starting your own fish print art, and learn how the fishing community at Zeke's Marina inspires their work. Plus, get the latest on custom rod building, Gulf Coast fishing, and how art connects anglers across generations. Featuring shoutouts to captains Tony Bearden, Gary Goodwin, Jamie G., and Patrick Dickinson, this episode is a must-listen for fishing enthusiasts, art lovers, and those looking for unique fishing gear and gifts. Try out your own Gyotaku Print: https://shop.yasutomo.com/collections/featured-products/products/gyotaku-kit Gyotaku DIY Tutorial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8gUUB4r5gBg 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

    • Transcript
  • Oct 27, 2025 · 57 min

    The AFTCO Legacy: From Building Gear to Protecting the Future of Fishing

    On this episode of the Mastering Rod Building Podcast, we sit down with AFTCO's Robby Gant to explore the deep history of one of fishing's most iconic brands. We trace AFTCO’s journey from its groundbreaking origins in rod components, discussing what made their roller guides revolutionary, to its evolution into a full-fledged fishing lifestyle brand. Robby shares the story behind their iconic fishing shorts and how the company balanced hardware innovation with technical apparel. This conversation also takes a deep dive into AFTCO's core identity of advocacy, detailing their 10% Pledge to Protect & Conserve, their fight for legislative change like gillnet bans, and their support for grassroots efforts through B.A.S.S. Nation grants. 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

    • Transcript
  • Oct 14, 2025 · 1 hr 33 min

    Fishing With Purpose: Ike Jime and the Ethics of the Catch

    Join host Bill Falconer as he welcomes Andrew Tsui, founder of the Ike Jime Federation, for an in-depth discussion on Ike Jime and Shike Jime—revolutionary fish care techniques that elevate seafood quality and ensure humane harvesting. Discover the science behind rigor mortis, the impact of proper fish handling on flavor and safety, and practical tips for anglers looking to improve their catch. Learn how these methods, recognized by top chefs and fisheries experts, can transform your fishing experience and seafood preparation. This episode covers sustainable fishing practices, seafood aging, and the essential tools every angler needs. Whether you're a seasoned fisherman or new to the sport, this fishing podcast delivers actionable insights for better seafood and responsible angling. For Mastering Rod Building, in every episode's show notes, both going forward and updating all previous shows, we need this: 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

    • Transcript
Showing 21–25 of 25 episodes