Bamboo Fly Rod Making Workshops - Learn to Build Your Own!

Another satisfied student with his finished 7’9” Parabolic rod!

Located in the historic Town of Kittery Point, Maine, our shop is situated only 300’ from salt water. Listen to the sounds of fog horns and lobster boats as you craft your own personal bamboo fly rod. Our classes are truly unique by offering one-on-one (or two-to-one) instructional classes eliminating the congestion associated with other venues. Spouses may enjoy shopping at the local Kittery Outlet Malls or across the river in the historic seaport town of Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Accommodations may be found in local B&B’s and hotels.

These classes are generally scheduled for one week, Monday through Friday, with Saturday as an optional day if needed so that you will leave with a fully-completed rod, ready to fish. Some students may not be able to take a full week of vacation, so an alternative schedule might include a day or two here and there (adding up to 5 days). Students will craft their own bamboo rod under the direction of master rod-maker, Fred Kretchman, with all the materials and equipment supplied by The F. D. Kretchman Rod Co. We use the Morgan Handmill for tapering the strips. This Handmill is the most accurate devise available today and virtually eliminates “open glue seams” that are common with other methods.

Fees for this class start at $1800 for a classic grade, 2-piece, 1-tip rod. Additional features can be added for an extra cost. Classes can be scheduled throughout the year, so contact us to discuss possible dates. Lunches are provided and may be enjoyed overlooking our local harbor and private town beach!

Hi Fred - Just wanted to let you know that I got my first two fish on the new rod this morning. I like it more each time I use it, if that is possible.” -Lynn

Students will flame bamboo, split it into strips, taper & glue them, straighten the sections, mount ferrules, and apply guides, reel seat, cork handle, and varnish. We only use the finest quality nickel silver components, snake guides, and pure silk thread. The end result is that you will make a quality rod that you’ll be proud to own, fish, show to friends, and pass down to the next generation. Remember, the emphasis in our class is to fully complete a high quality rod; not a fast/cheap substitute!

Here are a few of my "students"

The duration of a class is usually Monday through Friday, but can be arranged to accommodate a busy work schedule.

Saturday is an optional day, if needed, so that you will leave with a fully-completed rod, ready to fish.

Classes are scheduled throughout the year, so contact us to discuss possible dates.

Fees for this class are $1800.

Schedule your class now