Klang’s special-order rodmakers

KLANG, June 9 (Bernama) – From repairing their own fishing rods, Mohd Muaz Suhaimi, 32, and Muhamad Zufayri Nazmi, 28, who reside in Klang now fulfil orders from across the country for bespoke rods that are perhaps on par with international brands.

“We get all kinds of requests from colour and pattern to the rod’s length, handle and guide. There are also those who like to see their rods really curve down when there’s a catch. We try to meet expectations to keep the customer happy,” said Muaz, adding the rods are priced between RM400 and RM1,700.

“That’s affordable compared to what international brands are charging – which could be one or two times more -- for the specifications and quality asked,” he said.

Mohd Muaz, who gets a blank fishing rod for his custom creations from a local factory or ordered from overseas, said he learnt how to build a rod about five years ago when it got too expensive to keep fixing his own which often broke.

“I learnt from a friend how to repair and attach the guide before progressing to building my own rod. Friends from around the kampung were my first customers, but now orders come in from around the country and we’re able to fulfil between three and four a month,” he said.

Aside from made-to-order rods, the pair also do custom airbrushing for reels.

“Customers sometimes wish to restore a reel that has been scratched or damaged by saltwater,” tagged on Muhamad Zufayri of the requests they’ve received.

-- BERNAMA