03/10/2026
Help Us Put a Fishing Rod in a Kid’s Hands
Fishing has always been about more than just catching fish. For many of us, it started with someone handing us a rod when we were young and saying, “Let’s go see if they’re biting.” This is what my neighbor in Kinston did when I was a boy. That like spark ignited a lifelong passion for fishing. I want to do the same for other kids.
That moment can turn into a lifetime of memories — early mornings on the water, learning patience, spending time with family, and developing a deep appreciation for the outdoors.
At Slam Custom Rods, we want to help create more of those moments.
Over the years I’ve seen how powerful fishing can be for kids. But I’ve also realized something else — many children have never had their own fishing rod. Sometimes all it takes is having the right gear in their hands to spark a lifelong interest in fishing and the outdoors.
Introducing the Community Rod Program
We are launching a simple program to help get fishing rods into the hands of kids.
Through this program, we are collecting donated fishing rods and reels that are still in GOOD usable condition. Please no discards. These may be rods that are sitting in garages, tackle rooms, or boats that just aren’t being used anymore.
Instead of letting that equipment collect dust, we’ll give it a second life.
Each donated rod and reel will be:
• Cleaned and inspected
• Lightly repaired or tuned up if possible
• Paired into ready-to-fish rod and reel combos
While we don’t have time to fully rebuild every rod, we will make sure each setup is clean, functional, and ready for a child to fish with. We will also spool the reel with fresh braided line and provide a hand-out to teach kids their first fishing knots.
Where the Rods Go
These rod and reel combos will be given away to children at various fishing events, outdoor shows, and community gatherings that Slam Custom Rods attends throughout the year.
There is nothing better than seeing a young angler walk away with their very first fishing rod. For many kids, that simple moment is where the journey begins.
If even a few of these kids develop a love for fishing and the outdoors, then the program has done exactly what it was meant to do.
How You Can Help
If you have fishing rods or reels that are still in good working condition but no longer being used, we would be grateful for your donation.
We are especially looking for:
• Spinning rods and reels
• Youth-sized rods
• Light salt and freshwater setups
Even equipment that needs minor cleaning or small repairs can often be brought back into service.
Donation Receipts
If you would like one, we are happy to provide a receipt for your donated equipment for potential tax deduction purposes.
Let’s Pass Fishing Down to the Next Generation
Fishing has always been a tradition passed from one generation to the next. This program is simply one small way to help keep that tradition alive.
If you would like to donate rods or reels, you can:
• Send us a message through the website
• Reach out through our page
• Contact me direct
Thank you for helping us put fishing rods in the hands of kids and introducing more young people to the outdoors.
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Slam Custom Rods
