About JLS Custom Rods

Based on the Maryland / Pennsylvania line I've fished the rivers and streams and for Trout and Smallmouth Bass as well as local ponds and lakes for largemouth Bass. I used to be very active in the Pennsylvania Bass Tournament scene but have since given up competition for the enjoyment of a quick photo and release.

Currently, most of my fishing is based on the Chesapeake Bay chasing Striped Bass, Red Drum, Cobia and other any other big hard fighting fish I can get a shot at. I enjoy the challenge of catching large saltwater fish on light tackle that I have designed and built.

My knowledge and experience of multi species fishing is essential in building custom fishing rods for a wide range of species and fishing techniques. 

 My start building custom rods came several years ago looking for the perfect light tackle jigging rod for Striped Bass on the Chesapeake. After a few years and finally settling on a design, my friends started asking me to build them rods. After our first year of business we have sold just over 200 custom rods, building anything from pan fish to light tackle tuna popping rods, worked with OEM manufactures to design our own proprietary blanks and have put together a very accomplished, accredited pro staff. All of our custom work from making our custom grips to painting blanks and personalization is done in house by us. This level of quality, craftsmanship, attention to detail and customer service has attracted a large following in a short amount of time. We do customization that most if not all builders in our area either can not or will not do. If you can come up with an idea for a custom fishing rod, we most likely can make it happen. Our shop is fully equipped with all the tools necessary to be a true custom rod builder.