Fishing rods come in a variety of designs and construction methods, each with its own unique features and benefits. One important component of a fishing rod is the ferrule joint, which connects the rod’s two sections together.
Ferrule joints come in several types, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. One type of ferrule joint that has gained popularity among serious anglers is the spigot ferrule.
In this article, we will explore what a spigot ferrule is, how it works, and its advantages over other types of ferrule joints. We will provide insights for anglers looking to purchase a fishing rod with this type of joint.
What is a Spigot Ferrule?
A “spigot ferrule” is a distinct component bonded to the interior of the bottom section of a rod blank, resulting in a projecting tube on which the upper section glides. There is a usually space between the two portions when an spigot ferrule is properly installed.
Spigot ferrules are commonly found high end modern travel rods and also on flyfishing rods.
The ultimate goal of this type of ferrule is to make all of the rod section once joined up together to give the same feel and performance as that of a single piece rod blank.
Types of Ferrule Joints
Ferrule joints are used to connect the two sections of a fishing rod together, allowing for ease of transport and storage. There are several types of ferrule joints used in fishing rods, including:
- Sleeve-Over Ferrule – This is the most common type of ferrule joint, consisting of two separate sections that are joined by sliding one section over the other. While this type of ferrule is easy to manufacture and assemble, it can be prone to wear and tear over time.
- Spigot Ferrule – This type of ferrule joint is tapered and solid, with one section of the rod fitting into the other. The spigot ferrule joint provides a larger surface area of contact between the two rod sections, distributing stress more evenly and reducing the likelihood of breakage or failure.
- Internal Spigot Ferrule – Similar to the spigot ferrule, this type of ferrule has an internal taper instead of an external one. This allows the two sections of the rod to be joined together seamlessly, resulting in a smoother, more consistent action.
- Step-Over Ferrule – This type of ferrule is similar to the sleeve-over ferrule, but has a step-down design that allows one section of the rod to fit inside the other. This creates a smoother transition between the two sections and reduces the likelihood of snagging or catching on the guides.
- Twist-Lock Ferrule – This type of ferrule uses a threaded connection to join the two sections of the rod together. This allows for a tighter, more secure connection that is less likely to loosen over time. However, twist-lock ferrules can be more difficult to assemble and disassemble than other types of ferrules.
While each type of ferrule joint has its own unique characteristics, the spigot ferrule joint is often preferred by experienced anglers who demand the highest performance from their equipment.
The Spigot Ferrule Joint
The spigot ferrule joint is a type of ferrule used in fishing rods that is tapered and solid, with one section of the rod fitting into the other. This design allows for a larger surface area of contact between the two rod sections, distributing stress more evenly and reducing the likelihood of breakage or failure.
The spigot ferrule joint is particularly favored by experienced anglers because it offers several advantages over other types of ferrule joints. First and foremost, it creates a smoother and stronger connection between the two sections of the rod.
This is because the spigot joint allows for a larger surface area of contact between the two rod sections, which distributes stress more evenly and reduces the likelihood of breakage or failure.
In addition to its strength, the spigot ferrule joint also provides a more consistent action throughout the length of the rod. This is because the joint creates a seamless transition between the two sections of the rod, which helps to maintain the rod’s natural flex and action.
However, it’s important to note that spigot ferrule joints can be more difficult to manufacture and assemble than other types of ferrule joints, which is why they are typically found on higher-end fishing rods that are designed for serious anglers who demand the highest performance from their equipment.