Refinishing your old Ugly Stik®
Many of you have written to me concerned about chipping or flaking of the varnish on your older model Ugly Stik rods. This problem can be causes by many things including extreme hot or cold temperatures, saltwater or just old age. Flaking of the original coating will not affect the use of the rod but let's face it—the rod's just not as pretty. Well, here's the scoop on how to make them look as good as new.
- Using a fine grade of paper, gently sand over the entire surface of the rod. It's best to tape up the guides and handle before sanding. (Sandpaper can mar or chip the guides or reel seat.) A paper or masking tape works best. Don't wrap the tape too tightly or you may pull paint from the guides.
- Go to your local auto supply store and buy a spray can of black enamel auto body paint and a spray can of Klear Koat® or similar clear UV coating.
- Lightly spray the rod with the black paint.
- Let the paint dry completely.
- Apply a light covering of Klear Koat. Let it dry completely then apply a second coat.
- Let the Klear Koat dry totally before removing the guide and handle protection.
- If you want to paint the guides, leave off the tape but roll a small piece
paper and place it inside each guide. This will keep the paint from
running or gathering in the center of the guide.
How to replace a tip top guide
The tip top guide gets the most stress and wear but it needs to be in perfect condition at all times. At some point you will need to change the guide. Here's how to do it!
Gather theses supplies:
 A source of heat—like a high voltage hair dryer or a Bunsen burner
Small pliers
Two-part epoxy glue
New Tip Top guide
Heat the broken guide to loosen the glue holding it in place. Use the pliers to twist and remove the bad guide. Mix the epoxy and apply a thin even coat on the tip of the rod. Set the new tip top in place. Make sure the guide is lined up properly. Wait for the glue to dry and it's off to the ol' fishing hole.
How to care for cork handle rods
Store rods with cork handles inside to prevent excessive moisture build up or extreme temperature changes
Allow cork handles to dry naturally after each use to prevent
mildew
Clean cork with mild soapy water on a damp cloth. Do not use chemicals or cleaning solvents. These will eat away at the cork causing it to disintegrate.
Do not paint or varnish. This will cause brittleness, cracking and splitting
Cork will darken with age and use. You can restore the natural lighter color by "hand" sanding with a very fine grade of sandpaper. Gently sand the whole surface of the handle, being careful not to rub too hard in one area.
Good luck and good fishin'
The Shakespeare Service Guide
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