Namitsugi Cob | 5 Oct. 2008
 
In this part, I will introduce the first step in rod making: choosing materials.
Just like in Parts 1 and 2, I emphasize the importance of selecting materials with flexibility and moderate resilience. This is because while carbon provides lightweight and strong resilience, it feels too powerful for short rods in the Sumida River.
 
Now, regarding the crucial materials, I believe it may be difficult to find them without visiting a specialized store. As I mentioned in Part 1, I also purchase glass materials from "SAKURAI & CO,.LTD" in Kanda. The current president is Edogawa the 4th, who always greets me with a smile. Their store is filled with completed rods as well as various materials, including bamboo, glass, and carbon.
 

 
Looking at the photo, it may seem messy, but for enthusiasts like me, it's a treasure trove. Choosing materials that match my vision from this array is also an enjoyable experience. This time, I asked the president for a special favor. I communicated my desired image of the rod in advance, and they helped me select the suitable materials. Without delay, I checked the rod's condition inside the store.
 

 
Compared to the Sumida River Special 1 and 2, it has a slightly more flexible tip and a thicker midsection. I was able to imagine it as a sturdy rod. I'm eager to try it out with a big catch! (A rod exclusively for meter-class fish, perhaps?)
 
On the day of purchase, I also matched the reel seat's thickness and found and purchased a ferrule that matched the thickness of the joint section. By the way, the expenses on that day amounted to approximately 5,000 yen. I expect to spend around 10,000 yen until the rod's completion. Among the expenses, the guides are the most costly. If I were to attach titanium guides, it could easily reach 15,000 yen. Personally, I have mainly used stainless steel guides, but I remember spending around 8,000 yen per set for the Sumida River Special 1
 
The address and phone number of "SAKURAI & CO,.LTD" are as follows: It is located near Kanda Station, just a short walk from Chuo Street towards Nihonbashi. The Imagawabashi intersection serves as a landmark. If you consult them about rod making, they will provide detailed advice (but if you stay silent inside the store, the staff won't say anything!). It's common to make unnecessary purchases when you're an amateur and buy everything that catches your eye. I recommend starting by carefully listening to professional advice and purchasing only what you truly need.
 
SAKURAI & CO,.LTD
1-8-1 Kajicho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan
TEL: 03-3252-0717
https://www.sakura-rod.co.jp
 

 
"Sakura High-End Fishing Tackle" and "Edogawa Works" are all products from this store. Nowadays, you can often find carbon rods at stores like Jozuya. But if you take a look, it's clear that compared to rods from other manufacturers, they have a very modest design and, frankly speaking, are quite expensive. However, once you use them, you'll understand the dedication to rods (especially to their action). If you have the opportunity, I highly recommend trying them out. They are all beautifully crafted rods! (Unfortunately, it seems there are no carp fishing rods specifically designed for reel use...)