Online Classes

LEARN TO BUILD
CUSTOM RODS

Live Zoom classes taught by experienced builders. From your first wrap to advanced weaving — join from anywhere in the world and build alongside a community.

15
Weeks of Instruction
100+
Rods Built by Students
LIVE
Zoom + Playback
40%
Off MSRP on Supplies
Choose Your Path

OUR COURSES

Three ways to learn — from comprehensive group courses to private one-on-one sessions.

Most Popular
$185
$145
Early Bird Price
Beginner → Advanced

15-WEEK ROD BUILDING COURSE

The complete rod building education. Live step-by-step instruction with expert guest speakers from the industry. Every student receives a free RainShadow blank (chosen during week 3). Don't buy any supplies upfront — wait until after the 2nd or 3rd class.

1.5 hrs / week Live Group Class Free Blank Included Zoom + Playback
Upcoming Sessions
  • Saturdays 5/16/2026 – 8/22/2026  ·  9:00 AM – 10:30 AM PDT
  • Wednesdays 5/20/2026 – 8/26/2026  ·  5:00 PM – 6:30 PM PDT
  • Sundays 7/12/2026 – 10/18/2026  ·  4:00 PM – 5:30 PM PDT
Enroll Now — $145
Advanced
$235
$185
Limited Spots
Advanced / Post-15-Week

ELITE ROD BUILDING COURSE

Level up your craft. Learn to create your own weave patterns, step up your weaving technique, build custom grips, and master advanced finishing. Highly recommended to complete the 15-week course first. Limited space — non-refundable.

10 Weeks Custom Patterns Advanced Weaving
Upcoming Sessions
  • Mondays 4/20/2026 – 6/22/2026
  • Mondays 7/20/2026 – 9/21/2026  ·  5:00 PM – 6:30 PM PDT
  • Mondays 10/19/2026 – 12/28/2026
Enroll — From $185
1-on-1
$150
Per Session
Any Skill Level

PRIVATE LESSON

One-on-one Zoom session focused entirely on you. Perfect for targeted help with a specific technique, troubleshooting a build in progress, or getting personalized instruction at your own pace. Schedule around your availability.

Flexible Scheduling 1-on-1 via Zoom Any Topic
Book a Private Lesson
15-Week Curriculum

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

Every topic covered in the comprehensive course — from blank selection to decorative finishing.

Blank SelectionChoosing blanks & components for specific fishing styles
Power & ActionUnderstanding deflection, power ratings, and action curves
Component AssemblyPutting blanks and components together properly
Materials Deep DiveLearn the materials of blanks and components
Rod Building TerminologyIndustry terms and technical language explained
Cross Wrap PatternsLearn how to read and execute cross wrap designs
3 Rod DesignsBuild three complete rods during the course
Basic MarblingIntroduction to marbling techniques and finishes
Guide RepairFixing and replacing guides on existing rods
Rod RefurbishingBring old rods back to life with proper technique
Decorative End WrapsProfessional finishing touches and trim work
Acid / Spiral WrapsAcid wraps and traditional guide train techniques
Custom Grip DesignShape and fit grips to your hand and style
Guest SpeakersIndustry experts share real-world knowledge

CLASS SUPPLIES & COMPONENT KITS

Don't buy anything before class starts. Wait until after the 2nd or 3rd session — your instructor will tell you exactly what you need. Students get up to 40% off MSRP on all supplies through vaguerods.net.

Class Supplies Component Kits

CLASS
QUESTIONS

Still not sure? Reach out — we're happy to help you find the right class.

Contact Us
None at all. The 15-week course starts from absolute zero and builds up to advanced techniques. You can also just watch and learn at your own pace before picking up tools. The Elite course does assume you've completed the 15-week class or have equivalent experience.
No — don't buy anything upfront. Wait until after the 2nd or 3rd class. Your instructor will walk you through exactly what you need and you'll get up to 40% off MSRP through vaguerods.net. You also receive a free RainShadow blank (chosen during week 3).
All classes are recorded. You'll have playback access so you can catch up on any session you miss. Live attendance is encouraged for real-time Q&A, but it's not required.
Absolutely. Classes are live on Zoom — join from anywhere in the world. Just note that custom duties may apply when ordering supplies to international addresses. Times listed are PDT (Pacific).
All class enrollments are non-refundable. The Zoom link is sent a few days to a week before class starts. If you have questions about which class is right for you, reach out to us before enrolling.
The 15-week course covers everything from scratch — blank selection, wrapping, marbling, guide repair, and more. The Elite course is for graduates who want to go deeper into weaving, custom pattern creation, grip building, and advanced finishing techniques. Think of it as the master class after the foundation.

READY TO START BUILDING?

Pick a course, grab a seat, and build your first rod alongside a community of anglers and builders.

Enroll in 15-Week Course Gift Card — From $25
@VagueRods @VagueCustomRods