It is absolutely worth it, IF you like nice rods. I can't make a rod that is cheaper than the Berkely at Walmart. But I like Sage and Loomis rods, and can make the equivalent for 1/2 to 2/3 the price, and get them made the way I like them, not the way some factory's marketing department thinks they ought to be.

It isn't hard. Angler's Workshop is a great place, and they should be able to help you get started. Go talk to them.

I haven't bought a factory rod in years, and have about 30 rods in the garage. All made by yours truly. It's fun, and you get good gear out of it.