Cork Handles

[piscesman]

I know this is a "reel" sight but what good is a reel without a pole. I was wondering if anyone out there could tell me how to properly clean the cork handle on a pole without damaging the cork. I've never seen any posts about it. Thank you.

[ak-fish]

You can usually clean cork by scrubbing it lightly with fine steel wool or a nylon scrubber. If need be, use a little household cleaner (409, etc.). If there are any serious nicks or holes, you can plug them with a piece of cirk from a wine bottle, glued in with epoxy. (Obviously, don't do this on a rod you want as a collectable, but it works well for a rod to fish.)

[gadabout]

I use an old toothbrush and some toothpaste. And it will smell minty fresh too!

[piscesman]

Thanks for the information. Things made years ago take a little more "finess" than now-a-days. Wasn't too sure about cork so had to ask. Better to ask now than later after the "problem". Nothing like using a nice old cork pole with your favorite reel to haul a your memories. I have a few foam grip poles but not the same. Some folks will argue that the newer poles are lighter and less cumbersome than the older poles. I'll take an older cork grip pole over other poles anytime. May be a little heavier than the new ones but you have to honor a time tested tradition. Tight lines to all... HAPPY MEMORIES!