"Lionel F. Stevenson" wrote in message
...

Is it worth doing for one rod?
How difficult is it for a knacky but rank beginner?

This is an easy task for anyone reasonably handy and
with high standards of neatness.

Will I end up with a really good rod for a bargain price?

Probably yes, with a well-chosen blank and components
to suit personal taste (e.g. extra large tiptop and stripper
guide, up- or down-securing reel seat etc.) There are
plenty of good books. (The pamphlet Orvis used to give
away with rod blanks was perfectly adequate.)

Until totally satisfied with your work, avoid such
irreversible steps as epoxy sealing of the rod windings
(not needed for freshwater use anyway.)

--
Don Phillipson
Carlsbad Springs
(Ottawa, Canada)