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Tip guides are the most common part of a rod to break or wear out — whether from knocks, pressure, or line friction. The good news is that replacing a tip is simple once you know how to size it correctly and install it properly. Here’s a clear step-by-step guide. Step 1: Measure for the…

When it comes to leaders and mainlines, fluorocarbon has earned its reputation as the go-to choice for anglers who want abrasion resistance, invisibility, and strength. But not all fluorocarbons are created equal. In fact, there are three main types you’ll come across: hard, supple, and super fluorocarbon — each designed with different fishing situations in…

After years of using simple worm hooks weedless with softbaits, I recently changed over to a new style of hook and suddenly found myself dropping fish. At first, I thought it might be my drag, my strike, or even the softbaits I was using — but after some testing on the water, it became clear…

At K-Labs, every rod blank that leaves our workshop has already proven itself in our hands. We pre-test each blank to ensure it meets our performance, strength, and durability standards before it ever reaches you. This extra step gives anglers confidence that their rod will perform flawlessly from the first cast. The Nature of Carbon…

K-Labs Custom Rods – Rods of Fine Design When building a high-performance rod, it all starts with the blank. For anglers searching for custom fishing rod blanks in NZ, understanding rod power and casting weight is essential. These aren’t just specs on a page — they shape how your rod performs, feels, and responds on…

Solid Carbon vs Hollow Carbon Blanks: Which is Better — and Why It Depends on the Application If you’ve ever debated whether solid or hollow carbon blanks are better for your fishing rod build, you’re not alone. The answer isn’t black and white — but it is pretty clear once you break it down. Spoiler…

Why Snapper Fishing Shines in Winter Why Winter Snapper Fishing NZ Deserves More Hype Winter snapper fishing in NZ is often underrated — but those in the know are quietly cashing in. As the weather cools, the fishing often heats up. Here’s why cold-water snapper missions are well worth the effort. The Big Reds Move…

Slow Pitch Jigging in NZ: Master the Technique with Custom SPJ RodsMastering Slow Pitch Jigging: The Art of Controlled Power in Deep Water Slow pitch jigging (SPJ) is a refined vertical fishing technique. It’s built on rhythm, subtlety, and precision. Unlike high-speed jigging, SPJ relies on the natural flutter and fall of a jig, mimicking…

Fishing rods are built to withstand the pressures of a good fight, but improper handling can lead to frustrating breakages. Most rod damage is preventable with proper care and technique! The key is knowing how to avoid common mistakes like high sticking, point loading, dropping, knocking, chipping blanks, and overloading. Below, we break down these…

1. Rinse After Every Trip Saltwater is your rod’s biggest enemy. After every session, rinse your rod gently with fresh water. Focus on the guides, reel seat, and blank — these are the parts most exposed to salt buildup. Avoid high-pressure hosing — a soft rinse is all you need to prevent corrosion without forcing…