WOW!
A rod drying motor makes a big difference. I finally opted for a Pac Bay rod drying motor and stand from Cabela's. The rod is a 5'5"-3 weight cane. New grip, new reel seat and new guides. Wrapped in red Gudebrod thread and finished with one part Gudebrod rod finish. I've built a few rods before without a rod dryer and always seem to get some lumps. Not this time though. The rod finish has turned the red thread a deep ruby color and it looks great on a blond rod. I've got a few pictures and as soon as I put comments to them I'll submit to Mike for approval and posting.
Later,
Lotech Joe