on another note i have a new rod coming and was just wondering is there anything you can apply to prevent the handle from becoming dirty

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"Thats why its called fishing,not catching!"

There are various things, do a search for cork sealant on here.
Nice to let your cork darken a bit though, adds character.

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"A glint of sun has warmed the air,The flies will soon hatch out, To lure and tempt from their deep lair, The bonnie speckled trout." SKB tackle supporter. I love Furled Leaders.

There really is nothing like a nice worn in handle in my book! Nothing looks worse than that new look. I try to get mine dirty as quick as poss!!

Just keep the plastic on.

Alan

yes or just keep wearing those rubber gloves i have....its just the cork does get a wee tad smelly.

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"Thats why its called fishing,not catching!"

Water gets under the plastic and the damp rots the cork mate,sealant that you apply darkens the cork a bit ,tried it on an old rod wished i hadnt

best not to use it keep it in a bag.

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Kevin

sometimes i wonder should i take any of them out of the bag!!!!

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"Thats why its called fishing,not catching!"

whats wrong with a dirty cork handle????

Wasnt it John Geirach that said, he recognised instantly that the guy was a serious fisher by the wear on his handle.