134 CASTING TACKLE AND METHODS 



however, that all frayed and loose windings are 

 replaced before applying varnish. 



Select for varnishing a warm day and a warm 

 room free from floating particles of dust. Go over 

 the rod carefully with a cloth on which has been 

 sprinkled a few drops of benzine or gasoline to 

 remove any dirt. Be sure the rod is absolutely clean. 

 Begin at the top of the tip and work down, applying 

 the varnish with a pencil-brush, rubbing out well. 

 Do not flow the varnish on, the result will be a dauby 

 appearing job. Take time to do the work in the 

 very best manner possible. "That which is worth 

 doing at all, is worth doing well." When completed, 

 hang the rod, or joints, in a warm room free from 

 dust. The rod should be allowed to dry for three 

 or four days, a week or ten days being better, though 

 much depends upon the character of the weather; 

 varnish drying much more quickly in a hot, dry spell 

 than when the air is humid. 



As to whether or not the rodster should use both 

 shellac and varnish will depend upon the condition 

 of the rod; if well worn I should say employ both, 

 if not, use the varnish alone. If both are used, at 

 least a week should intervene between the coats. As 

 to how many times a rod should be varnished during 

 a reason will depend upon the use and weather to 

 which subjected; ordinarily a coat at the beginning 

 of the season should be sufficient. If used in the rain 

 a great deal, then two or three treatments should be 



