traveling with rods

[plugger]

I started going to Mexico several years ago (Lapaz) and now it is an annual affair. I am going to start taking my own rods, Fishing has always been good, the rod/reel combos, not so much. Has anyone flown with their poles? I got a rod case for up to 7'. Should I be getting two-piece rodes to keep the length down. Is there extra charges for length? Any general information would be helpful.

[HUNTINCOUPLE]

Probably call the airline company.  I carried on a two piece pole for one of our trips. It actually created alot of conversations which were pretty informative to learning fishing techniques where we were going.

[NW SURVEYOR]

Plugger,
I make rod tubes out of Schedule 80 PVC pipe.
Cap one end with glue and make sure the other end can be opened for inspection.
I also put a cushion of pipe insulation at each and write my contact info on the tube.
I carry anywhere from 8'6" to 10"6" two-piece rods and have never has a problem over 15 trips to Baja and Hawaii.
We are making a Baja trip in April and July and expect no problems.
I will check my tube and they will arrive at a separate cargo gate typically used for golf clubs, surf boards, etc.
As for cost, I forget, but not to outrageous.
Good Luck.
Rob.

[lewy]

2 piece rod, carry it on and ask the stewardess to put it in the “captains closet”

[metlhead]

I wrap my rods in underwear, socks, and other lightweight clothing before stuffing into the travel tube. Never needed a suitcase!

[ghosthunter]

I put mine  in pool noodles. I have also used a gun case.

[fowl smacker]

When we went to LaPaz I put all mine in a lockable Plano case, both 2 piece and short 7' 1 piece.  I put my reels in my carry on.  Worked great.

[jeffro]

I have a couple Eagle Claw trailmasters
One 6-6 medium action
One 7-6 med-light
4 piece rods that come with a travel tube
Will fit in a large suitcase or can be carry ons

[M_ray]

I also made a rod tube out of pvc, then put them in soft rod cases. I made it large enough to fit 4 steelhead salmon rods no problem .

[plugger]

Thanks for all the info. I have the Plano tube that will hold 4 rods and extends from 5 to 7,
Plan on wrapping each one separately and locking it and packing the reels separately. There is a 7' one piece i want to get, sounds like that won't be a problem.

[jackelope]

Thanks for all the info. I have the Plano tube that will hold 4 rods and extends from 5 to 7,
Plan on wrapping each one separately and locking it and packing the reels separately. There is a 7' one piece i want to get, sounds like that won't be a problem.

I’ve used the Plano case on the plane before without issue. I’ve checked it.

[NW SURVEYOR]

Don't make the mistake of locking the tubes to a point where they can't be opened and examined by customs/travel.
They want to inspect this stuff before it gets loaded on the plane and if they can't open it, they will.
Make one end accessible.

[plugger]