Grip

[Casey A. Wood]

I finally decided to keep the LL Bean Travel Rod I bought.(and the new line.) I put it threw a casting session that I normally wouldn't do just casully fishing. However, there is a bulge in the middle of the grip. It presses up against where the thumb joins the palm. My hand get tired from the casting. I was thinking of sanding down the grip, but if I do, how will I know when to stop? Is it a good idea to try and correct the problem? I was thinking maybe I shouldn't because it might void the warranty. Any thoughts?

[MJ]

Casey,

I'd have a chat with LLBean. They back up their products. Tell them of your issue with the grip, and tell them of your intention to "correct" things. They might tell you something about the matter that you might not expect - maybe something good, maybe not. Who knows? Nevertheless, I'd talk with them first. They might be able to solve your problem better than anyone. Maybe. :)

[overmywaders]

Casey,

The LL Bean Travel Rods in 4-7wt have a Reverse Half Wells grip. If you use your thumb for power in casting you, like many others, are probably more comfortable with a Full Wells grip.

At one time it was possible to buy a sturdy thumb rest that could be mounted on cigar, ultra-fine, and Reverse Half Wells grips to allow more use of the thumb. You might look for one of those. Otherwise, I would have a woodworking friend carve a section from another grip blank (available at Angler's Workshop (http://www.anglersworkshop.com/cgi/aw/FG-FLY.html?manu=Anglers%20Workshop&item_name=Cork%20Fly%20Grips)) which could be mounted with an adhesive like aliphatic resin (carpenter's glue - don't use PVA) with a layer of brown paper between. If you ever wanted to remove the built-up section, you could pop it off by slicing through the paper layer. Just an idea.

[Kype+]

Cassey

Are you sure that you like the action of the rod enough to keep it with a handle you don't like? There are plenty of rods out there. If so then check out what Bean has to say as has been pointed out other wise try some other rod.

I have taken sand paper to cork in the past and it did help. You do have to be careful and it is best if you have the right tools. I did not and the finished product was good but could have been better.

Bobby

[Casey A. Wood]

I did go back to LL shortly after MARCUS1951 posted his response. The salesclerk I talked to wasn't sure what the procedure was, especially on an import item. He adised to talk to the fellow incahrge of the dept. Its just with the fishing season in full swing, finding the time to talk to the dept head clerk is back burner right now. However, I have been in to buy flies, and haven't seen him around, and that ain't good either.