Hello gang,
I've been trying to figure out a way to prevent the rod tubes from filling with water in case of emergency, yet remain usable. What I came up with is essentially a smaller diameter pool noodle. It is called Frost King foam pipe insulation and can be found at Lowes. I had intended to use item #21416 ($1.94 for a 6' length) a more dense closed cell foam which was sold out. I ended up buying item #24434 (according to my receipt) which is less dense like a pool noodle and cost $0.88 for 6'. When cut in 3' sections they will run the full length of the tube and the wall thickness still allows me to use the rod storage tubes as intended ( the line guides on my rod still fit within the tube).
I've also ordered 2" diameter foam balls to plug the storage tubes while on extended trips. I'll post more on that when I've received and tried them. I'll share my concerns with you regarding the "tube noodles":
1) The ability to insert the full 3' length into the tube (shouldn't be much of an issue)
2) I don't know the shelf life of the material when exposed to the elements. Will it melt and adhere to the inside of the storage tubes or just become particulate matter. Removal may become a tedious task.
I'm going to go ahead and follow through with the "plan" because I like knowing the amount of water that can enter the storage tubes will be limited and also increase the buoyancy factor towards the bow. This is a precautionary measure for my 3 week solo trip to the north shore of Lake Superior.
I may be missing something, so if anyone has any insight on the idea please "post up".
GR8 Laker
