Flying with Rods

[the_donger]

I have friends that fly into Nashville from Denver every year. He went to a hardware store, bought threaded pvc pipe, some epoxy, a small lock and a hinged latch. He epoxied one end on that will never come off. On the other end, he screwed on the cap, lined up the latch, drilled the holes, took off the cap, attached the latch and now all he needs to do is pack the rods and, screw on the cap and lock the lock. He has not had a problem with his fishing gear in the ten years he has been doing this.

[smljaw]

Have packed rods on planes using PVC many times and have never had a problem. I wrap the rods in bath towels and duck tape the towels so they don't slip. Once you get the rods packed, duck tape a strap of some sort to the PVC tube. Find the right place to tape it and it makes a great handle. You will be glad you have a handle when you're carrying your tube through the airport.

Also, MAKE SURE you know what the airline allows when it comes to fishing rods. You can find this information on the airline's website. I always print a copy of their 'rules' and keep it handy in my carry on bag... I flew Continental to Mexico last year and I couldn't pack a rod over 6'6".