Telescopic Fishing Rod Stuck?

One of the most frustrating things that can happen to a telescopic fishing rod is getting stuck in a joint. This can happen for a variety of reasons, but is usually due to corrosion or dirt / mud / sand in the joint.

Prevention is better than cure: try to keep the reed off the ground at all times to prevent dirt from getting into the joints. Wipe it off with a cloth before removing so you don’t get dirt on the gasket. If you’ve been using it in salt water, quickly rinse it off with fresh water as soon as you can after use. It is a good idea to put a protector like WD-40, Tackle Guard or a silicone lubricant on the joints. Make sure not to use too much or it may go the other way and prevent the rod from standing up when you extend it, especially around the tip joints.

Now if you are unlucky enough to have a reed jam on you (due to bad luck or mismanagement), there are several techniques to take off the suction cup.

1. The hot water technique

Pour hot water on the large side of the joint as close to the joint as possible to quickly expand it. Then after a few seconds, try twisting or pushing the small side of the joint down. It is best if you can do this under a tap where the water starts out cold and then progressively warms up for a few seconds as this reduces the risk of stress cracks developing in the joint.

2. The ice and hot water technique

If the hot water technique fails, try the next step. Do the same as above, but ice the small side of the joint to shrink it. This is easier if you scoop some ice out of your freezer, place it on a cloth or towel, and then wrap it around the wand and hold it while heating the other side with hot water.

3. Lubrication

Try a penetrating lubricant like WD-40, CRC, or Tackle Guard. Let the joint soak for an hour or two and then gently try to lower the dipstick.

4. Tapping method

Place the rod end on a hard surface such as concrete and hold it above the stuck gasket. Gently lift up and hit the cylinder head against the ground. This works best if the lower joints are stuck. Never hit the tip against the ground, as it is very likely to break.

5. The twist of the couple

Ask a friend to hold one side of the joint while you hold the other and rotate it. I recommend that you use a friend you trust and give him the thicker end to hold. It may not be very good for the relationship if something breaks.

6. The “Lost all hope” method

Go to our website and buy another rod, they are not very expensive. Take better care of your fishing gear in the future! You can always keep the one stuck as a spare or give it to a neighborhood kid (tell them you’ll buy it back for a dollar if they fix it)

Look for more articles on how to get the most out of your telescopic fishing rod.

Happy fishing …