By Tackle Warehouse | Updated September 2023
After a season of bass fishing your rods with cork handles might be in need of a cleaning. Taking the time to maintain your fishing rods will return the original feel and look of a brand new cork handle fishing rod. In this article, we will demonstrate how-to properly clean your cork handles without damaging the cork and how to protect the cork handles to make them last many years.
-Cleaning sponge-Small bowl of water-Dry towels-U-40 Cork Seal-Painter’s tape-Paint brushes
To clean the dirt and grime off your cork handles, start by lightly scrubbing the cork with a moist sponge. Light and even pressure is most effective, too much pressure can damage the cork. Be sure to only use the sponge on the cork and avoid contact with the reel seat or the rod blank if you’re cleaning a split grip style rod. If necessary, cover sensitive areas with painter’s tape. Pat dry with a towel and repeat the process if needed in high wear areas.
Tackle Warehouse Recommends Star Brite Ultimate Magic Boat Sponge but Mr. Clean Magic Eraser or a clean rag with soapy water also works well.
To further protect your cork handles, you can seal them with U-40 Cork Seal once they are completely dry from cleaning. First, apply painter’s tape around the reel seat and any other non-cork trim pieces to protect them from the sealant. Apply a light coat of U-40 Cork Seal to the entire handle and let it cure for 24-hours. This will give your handles an enhanced feel, as well as, prevent dirt and grime from absorbing into the pores of the cork. Anglers can also use U-40 Cork Seal on brand new rods to protect the cork finish and make them easier to clean in the future.
***Please Note U-40 Cork Seal will slightly darken the color of your cork. First image is before and after sealing with U-40 Cork Seal.
How-To Replace a Rod TipBest Bass Fishing Rod ModificationsBest Bass Fishing Storage AccessoriesTop 5 Fishing Tools