What To Do with Your Fishing Equipment During the Winter

Posted December 12, 2022

We’re nearing the official beginning of winter in the next week. While this is a joyful, celebratory time of year, it’s not usually a fun period for fisherman. Unless you’re going ice fishing, this time is considered the offseason for many across the United States and Canada.

However, if you’re one of those anglers who really takes pride in their work, there’s more of it to do in the offseason. Here’s what you should do with your equipment during the winter:

Take Care of Your Rods and Reels

It’s important to keep your rods and reels in good condition in the offseason. If you use smaller spinning or conventional reels, you won’t have to perform as much maintenance, but you should still take the opportunity to clean them in the offseason. It doesn’t require too much effort – just wash them down with soapy water. You can then oil them by applying a small amount of a good reel oil to moving parts. Do the same for your rod as well. If you’re unsure of how to do this, there are many videos on YouTube that can show you. This is also a good time to check your rod for any imperfections. You can coat any nicks and make sure the material on the handle is solidly attached to the rod.

Examine Your Gear

The offseason is the perfect time to take stock of your gear and make any necessary changes or improvements. If you have any hooks, snaps, or snivels that are bent, corroded, or damaged in some way, throw them away and replace them. The same goes for all other equipment – jigheads, bucktails, lures, etc. that are imperfect in some way. Winter is also a good time to check your line. If it’s old, replace it. If you feel nicks by using the tips of your forefinger and thumb, remove any line to that point. It’s better to do this now than to realize there’s a problem when you’re out fishing next year. It’s always nice to go into the year fully stocked on all the gear you need.

Get Organized

It always feels good to be organized heading into a fishing season. You can help your future self out by starting now. You can sort things by putting them in some kind of category – the style of fishing the item is involved in or what species it’s used for. Regardless of how you choose to do it, getting organized will result in you being able to travel lighter and to more quickly locate what you need in a given situation.

And if you find yourself in need of near fishing gear, such as a new custom rod, Signature Fishing Rods is the place to buy. Call 630.234.6214 to learn more about products!

The Benefits of Going to A Sportsman’s Expo

Posted November 17, 2022

Sportsman’s expos are a perfect place for enthusiasts of hunting, fishing, and outdoor life to gather, especially over the winter months when you’re not as likely to be outdoors. These expos tend to feature vendors, seminars, and activities related to these interests. The best part is they happen all over the country, so you should be able to find one happening near you at some point during the year.

These expos are great for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds, but we’re going to focus on why they’re especially beneficial for fishing enthusiasts to attend. Here are a few reasons why:

Find New Products

One of the best parts of attending an expo is seeing what all the vendors have available. Rarely do you get a chance to see so many different vendors in just one area, all looking for new customers. This gives you a chance to compare them, but also to find new products. Technology is always evolving so there are always ways to improve your equipment and give yourself an edge.

Learning Opportunity

Another common sight at these sportsman’s expos is seminars on different topics. There’s a good chance that the expo happening near you will have at least one seminar on fishing. You’ll have the chance to learn about new techniques, methods, and equipment from all kinds of professionals and experts. You’re all but guaranteed to come away from it a better angler.

Talk Shop

One of the most enjoyable aspects of going to any expo is getting the chance to meet all kinds of like-minded people from all walks of life. You’ll get the chance to relax, talk shop, hear some stories, learn a little, and maybe even impart some wisdom of your own. If you’re lucky you might even find a new fishing buddy.

Here at Signature Fishing Rods, we support all efforts to learn more about and improve at the sport of fishing. We sell custom rods for anglers of all skill levels, complete with some of the latest advancements in fishing technology. Call 630.234.6214 to learn more about products.

If you’re interested in attending an expo, our supplier Grandt Industries will be at the Ultimate Fishing Show at Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi, MI Jan. 6 through Jan. 9.

How The Age of a River Affects How You Fish It

Posted November 8, 2022

Many people all over the world choose to do their fishing in rivers. This is due to both personal preference and geographical necessity. If you’ve done most of your fishing in lakes, creeks, oceans, or other bodies of water and you’re looking to fish a river, you should know that there are some differences between rivers and other types of fishing.

One of the most important things to know about a river before you fish it is its age. This will tell you so much about what you need to know to have a successful day of fishing. Here are some things to know about the age of a river:

Young Rivers

The youngest of rivers tend to feature clear, cold water flowing downhill, cutting through rock. They don’t often have much in the way of vegetation, so they aren’t the best at supporting life. However, they may still have both trout and grayling available to fish.

Adult and Mature Rivers

As a young river ages, it will next transition into the adult and mature stages. At this point, the water will begin to become a bit murkier, and the temperature will rise to the level of “cool.” You will see fewer Trout and, at first, more smallmouth bass. As the maturation process continues, you’ll begin to see more Walleyes, Sauger, Northern Pike, Muskies, Catfish, White Bass, Sturgeon, Crappies, Carp, and more.

Middle Aged Rivers

Rivers then transition into middle age, where you will likely see larger drainage areas and more tributaries. The water is now quite murky and getting warmer as well, while the gradient continues to decline. Species will include Northern Pike, Sauger, Crappies, Walleye, and some Largemouth Bass.

Old Rivers

As rivers reach old age, many of the trends that have been going on for centuries will continue. The water will get warmer and more turbid. The gradient continues to drop. Large drainage areas and increasingly common siltation may make dredging necessary. At this stage, you’ll find a lot of Largemouth Bass, Catfish, Crappies, and Northern Pike.

Regardless of the age of the river you’re fishing, you’re going to need to use the right equipment if you want to be successful. Signature Fishing Rods has a wide selection of different brands of custom rods. Check out the selection or call 630.234.6214 if you have any questions.

The Three Factors that Lead to Successful Fishing

Posted October 20, 2022

No one heads out for a fishing trip hoping to have moderate success. Everyone from a first timer to the most experienced fisherman heads out to the water with the hopes of having as successful of a day as possible.

Of course, the first step of a successful fishing outing is knowing what to expect. Nearly a half-century ago, Ron and Al Lindner came up with a system for successful fishing and published it in their magazine, In-Fisherman. This In-Fisherman System has a very basic premise Fish + Location + Presentation = Success. Here’s what they mean by that:

Fish’s Basic Nature

If you want to catch a certain kind of fish, you’re going to need to know as much as possible about it. Fish species respond differently to their environment based on smell, taste, touch, hearing, and sight. Where you will find them will depend partly on where they feed and where they’re found on the food chain. Other important factors to consider include comfort and reproduction needs. For example, species will prefer different water temperatures, water clarity, and other conditions for both comfort and reproduction.

Location

You can’t catch the species of fish you’re after if you don’t know where to find it. Fish tend to move on both a daily and seasonal basis. The timing of their movements, however, will depend on a few factors. First is the structure of the of the body of water – the characteristics and movement of the water, the bottom configuration and content, and the vegetation will all play a role here. The next factor is the interaction between species. Population density, competition for food, and availability of food will all be important considerations here. The final factor is reaction to outside stimuli. This will involve the seasonal temperature, the day-to-day weather, and man-made factors such as boats, swimmers, pollution, and alterations to the habitat.

Presentation

As an angler, you should strive to use the right bait in the correct manner at the exact right place and time. What works at one time may be a poor approach the following week, you have to be able to adapt. You have to consider the position (stationary or mobile) and the working method (triggers and controls) that will work best in a given situation.

Of course, if you’re going to follow the guidance of the Lindner Brothers, you’re going to need the right rod to actually catch the fish. If you’re in the market for a new one, Signature Fishing Rods has a wide selection of the best custom rods on the market. Give us a call at 630.234.6214 to learn more today!

How to Better Understand the Lake You’re Fishing

Posted September 27, 2022

One of the keys to successfully fishing in a natural lake is to understand what you’re dealing with. By paying attention to your surroundings, you can determine the relative age of the lake. This will tell you which kind of fish you’re likely to find in the lake, which will inform your strategy. Here’s some more information to help you better understand the lake you’re fishing in:

Natural Lakes Change Over Time

While no two lakes are exactly alike, they do all have something in common: they’re changing. These changes occur at all different paces. Sometimes, it may take hundreds of years for visible changes to occur. Other times, it may only take a few years. This aging process is known as eutrophication. It involves nearly everything – from the structural condition to vegetation levels to dominant fish species – changing over time.

How Lakes are Classified

In a broad sense, lakes are classified into three geological age groups: oligotrophic (young), mesotrophic (middle-aged), and eutrophic (old). The transition process takes a lake from stable, young, infertile, and cold to warm to very warm watered.

The youngest lakes tend to have rock basins, steep, sharp drop-offs, and very few weeds. The nutrient level tends to be lower, and oxygen is available except at the deepest depths. Middle-aged lakes tend to have less steep shorelines and drop-offs. The rocks are smaller and there is more sand and gravel. There’s significantly more vegetation and there are more nutrients in the water. Older lakes tend to be the most shallow. Instead of sand, there is muck or clay. The shorelines have gradual slopes and there usually isn’t a secondary drop-off. The water will be warmer and there will be abundant vegetation.

What Does This Mean for Fishing?

Because of the cold water and the lack of weed growth, young lakes don’t tend to support many fish. You will likely find Lake Trout even in the earliest of days. As the water warms up over the years, you’ll start to see more Walleye and then Largemouth Bass and Crappie as well. Meanwhile Bullhead fish tend to thrive in older lakes.

Once you identify what kind of lake you’re fishing in, you’ll know what kind of fish you’re looking for. This should help you have a more successful outing. And no matter what kind of fish you’re looking for, you’re going to need the right equipment to get the job done. Look no further than Signature Fishing Rods for all the latest custom rods. Give us a call at 630.234.6214 to learn more about our products today!

It’s Never Too Late to Get into Fishing

Posted August 25, 2022

Fishing can be a relaxing and rewarding experience available to people of all ages. While some people are birth-to-death fishermen, others take longer to get into it. Maybe your parents weren’t into fishing, or you didn’t grow up near a body of water or you just didn’t have the resources or time to commit to it.

Regardless of the reason, it’s never too late to pick up fishing as a hobby. If you’re seriously considering it, don’t let your lack of experience discourage you. Everyone has to start somewhere – the best angler in the world was once as much of an amateur as you are now. Here are some tips to prepare you for your first trip out on the water:

Get the Timing Right

The time of year you try fishing for the first time will depend on where you live or where you’re going. In most places, spring is the most pleasant time to fish. The ice has melted, and the temperatures have risen, making it a more comfortable trip for you. With moderate temperatures, fish will swim closer to the surface, making them easier to catch. It’s also wise to set out just as the sun is rising or later in evening after the peak of the sun, but before it gets dark.

Go With an Experienced Friend

If you’re just getting into fishing, chances are you have a more experienced friend who can help you get started. Ask them to come out with you the first time. They’ll be able to find a good spot, tell you what gear you’ll need and give you some pointers. They can also help you check out fishing regulations and license requirements.

Do You Research

Before you go out for your first trip, you have some research to do. You’re going to have to decide what kind of fishing you want to do and then acquire the gear that is best suited to that type of fishing. You should also investigate what kind of fish are in the body of water you’ll be visiting.

If you’re planning on getting into fishing for the first time, Signature Fishing Rods can be of service. We have dozens of custom rods and other gear available to give you the best possible experience. Call 630.234.6214 to learn more today!

Why You Should Invest in a Custom Fishing Rod

Posted August 10, 2022

If you’re an experienced angler who spends a good amount of time each year fishing, you should consider investing in at least one custom rod.

Sure, there’s nothing wrong with the factory model rods that you’ve been using. They’re more affordable and easily accessible, but there are benefits to a custom rod that you just can’t get with a factory model. You owe it to yourself to purchase at least one custom rod in your lifetime.

Even if you don’t know where to start, Signature Fishing Rods can help set you up with the perfect rod for you. If you’re not convinced yet, here are some of the benefits to using a custom rod:

Tailored to You

No two anglers are the same. That goes for preferences as well as physical features. There are all kinds of bodies out there and not everyone’s is well-suited to factory model rods. For example, some people may have small hands for their height. Others may have larger hands but prefer something lightweight. Of course, some are much taller or shorter than the average person and want a rod better suited for their size.

In all of these cases, investing in a custom rod can help alleviate these issues. The rod is tailored to you, not the other way around.

Add the Components You Want

There are times when you’ll find a rod you really like but notice that you’re not really compatible with at least one of the components. Whether it’s the guides, grips, butt or something else, there’s no reason to settle for even one less-than-suitable component with your rod. Customizing your rod allows you to get the exact components you desire.

A Lighter Rod

Generally, custom-built rods tend to be far more lightweight than factory models. You may even be surprised with the difference the first time you hold your custom rod. By deciding which parts you want, you have some control over how heavy or light your rod will be. A more lightweight rod will give you better control and won’t tire you out quite as much over the course of a long day.

The Appearance You Desire

Yes, this doesn’t necessarily affect how successful you are in any given trip, but there’s nothing wrong with customizing the appearance of your rod to your liking. Plus, you’re going to be using your rod a lot, ideally for a long time. You’re going to want something you can take pride in. An added benefit is the rod will allow others to get an idea of who you are as you’ll be able to decorate it any way you’d like. You can even get your name or initial inscribed to add a further personal touch.

Improved Performance

This will be the most important benefit to many anglers looking to purchase a customized rod. When you invest in a custom rod, you should start seeing better results almost right away. The reasons should be obvious: you’ll have a better grip, the features will be suited to your needs, you can add the components that work for you, it’s more lightweight. Everything will be exactly as you want it, and the rod will feel great in your hands. All of this will make you a more effective fisherman in the long run.

Signature Fishing Rods

At Signature Fishing Rods, we sell rods from Grandt Industries, which has 40 years’ experience in the business. These custom rods have the added benefits of being both sensitive and durable in addition to the other positive qualities mentioned above. We have more than a half-dozen different series available for sale on our website, so it should be easy to find something that works for you. Plus, they all come with a lifetime warranty and are made in the USA. If you have any questions, feel free to give us a call at 630.234.6214.

Our New Carbon Core Fishing Rods

Posted July 18, 2022

There are quite a few benefits to using a fishing rod made with carbon core technology. These rods have enhanced sensitivity that will transfer vibrations caused by a fish biting the hook through the rod so that you know exactly when you’ve got one. These rods are significantly lighter than most other kinds, which makes them more sensitive.

Despite a lightweight and flexible design, they’re also quite strong. Carbon is more resistant to breaking than other types of rods. Here at Signature Fishing Rods, we have a variety of new carbon-core rods made by Grandt Industries available on our website. The new rods are available in the following series.

Fin-S 22

Every rod in the Fin-S 22 series is made with carbon core technology. In making these, Grandt used high modulus high-strain carbon fiber and a unique layout to create powerful and sensitive rods with the best feel you’ve ever experienced and tremendous hook-setting ability.

These rods contain a carbon reel seat with a texalium inset, PVD coated CNC machined titanium guides, machined double-locking nuts, AAA cork grips and a polished carbon-ebony color. Best of all, it’s made in the United States and comes with a lifetime warranty. You can customize your rod so that your name or a phrase can appear on it. There are also handle alternatives available, as well as optional guides and other design choices.

Grandt Slam

There are also carbon-core rods available on our website now in the Grandt Slam Series. The carbon design ensures an incredible level of sensitivity. With a thinner diameter and reduced weight, these rods will likely be more sensitive than anything you’ve dealt with in the past. It also makes for a stronger rod that’s less likely to suffer damage.

This series contains high-quality components such as a splash back and silver reel seat design, AAA cork grip, PVD coated CNC machined stainless guides and a dark emerald green color. There are spinning and casting rods available in the Grandt Slam EXT series. These both have all of the features we’ve described and come with the appropriate handle and reel seat. The

Payara

Also available on the website now is the new Payara EXT Series. These rods are engineered to have an even higher level of sensitivity than you are accustomed to. The lightweight rod is made with high-strain carbon using uni-directional patterns. The rear section contains premium carbon twill, allowing for a softer and more parabolic action.

The rods in this series contain, AAA cork lightweight composite butt cap, AA cork machined grips, custom designed burgundy splash reel seats, PVD coated CNC machined stainless guides, wraps complimented with fine silk-matching, burgundy-colored thread and a translucent burgundy color. They’re available with optional full-feather weave, snakeskin inlay, carbon handles or standard wrap design. These rods are made in America, backed by a lifetime warranty and are available in all actions and powers.

Cuda Series

The new rods available in the Cuda Series have some similar characteristics to the rods already mentioned. The carbon core design simultaneously creates a more sensitive and more powerful rod. The design allows for a thinner wall diameter, uni-directional patterns and increased hoop strength technology. The engineering allows for faster actions and greater lifting power. They’ve added carbon twill to the rear section, similar to the existing Cuda rods.

Features of these rods include a high-strain carbon fiber twill in the rear, the ability to easily handle braid lines, PVD coated CNC machined guides, AAA cork grips with one-inch foregrip and straight-contoured rear grip, splash cushioned fixed reel seat with a unique graphite twill pattern, remarkable hook-setting power, fantastic sensitivity and a translucent dark marine blue color. Like the others, they’re made in America and come with a lifetime warranty.

If you’re interested in a sensitive and strong rod, Signature Fishing Rods has no shortage of options. Visit our website or give us a call at 630-234-6214 if you have any questions.

Tips For Taking Children on Their First Fishing Trip

Posted June 9, 2022

If you’re a parent who has long enjoyed fishing as a hobby, chances are you’re going to want your children to join you out on the water at some point.

But planning the logistics of fishing with one or more children can be hectic. It will require more preparation and your day will take a different shape than it normally would. Here are some tips for making sure the trip goes smoothly:

Ensure They Have a Cursory Knowledge

You don’t want your children to go into the day blind, not knowing a thing about fishing. Talk to them about some of the basics beforehand, show them how you prepare. Tell them what to expect and what the day will be like. Ensure they understand all the equipment they’ll be using that day. This way, they won’t be surprised or overwhelmed once the actual fishing commences.

Use Simple Equipment

First, it’s important to have equipment that’s small enough for a young child to handle. It’s not going to be a very fun day for them if they can’t even hold their rod. Additionally, the line they use doesn’t have to be able to handle much weight as they likely won’t be able to reel in anything too heavy anyway. Beyond that, no need to get too fancy; a few split shots, some live bait and a bobber should do.

Shorten Your Trip

A 10-hour day spent out on the water fishing may seem absolutely ideal to you, but probably not to a small child. Kids have shorter attention spans and can easily get bored. Plus, they may be overwhelmed by everything they’ve learned and experienced in their first time out. Keep your trip to just a few hours to ensure your child has the best possible memories of their first fishing adventure.

If you’re planning a fishing trip and need a new rod, Signature Fishing Rods can help. We sell a variety of high-quality fishing rods that will help you have success in your next outing. Call 630-234-6214 to learn more about our products.

3 Fishing Tips for the Spring Season

Posted February 25, 2022

If you’re like most fishermen, you’re chomping at the bit to get back out on the water this spring.

While you wait for the weather to take a turn for the better, there are certain things you can begin to plan out for your spring fishing expeditions to ensure you have all the success you’re hoping for.

In this blog we will discuss three easy-to-follow tips that will go a long way in helping you have a spring fishing season you won’t soon forget.

Check the weather before heading out

As the weather can be rather unpredictable in the spring months, it is important to check weather reports before heading out for a day on the water. It is suggested to go out on the warmer days of spring, as fish typically come out in greater numbers when the temperature of the water increases.

As an added tip, look for fishing locations that may be slightly warmer such as shallower areas of water and areas that are free of trees and completely exposed to the sun.

Fish in the Afternoon

Similarly, it is suggested to fish in the afternoon, as that is when the weather is usually the warmest. It is suggested to head out in the late morning hours and stay out until the early evening to have the greatest chance at bringing in a prized fish in the spring months. And of course, don’t forget to pack a lunch or snacks so you can stay out on the water for the entire day.

Have the right rod

While it is certainly important to go out when the weather is warm and favorable, you really won’t be able to catch a thing unless you have the right rod.

It is suggested to choose a rod that is lightweight, yet durable, and one that is truly comfortable for you. After all, you’ll be the one that is getting hours and hours of use out of it.

To ensure you are getting a rod that is exactly right for your needs, make sure to choose a custom-made fishing rod. At Signature Fishing Rods, we have a wide range of custom fishing rod options available and will make sure you get a rod that you are completely satisfied with. All of the rods we offer on our site are made right here in the USA from top manufacturer Grandt Industries and come with an unconditional lifetime warranty.

To learn more about our rods or to place an order, we ask that you reach out to us today at 630.234.6214.