I went and broke one of my new store bought rods today. I called the factory to see if I could buy only the tip section. No deal, but, they made me a good deal on buying one. So, I bought 2 more. I think everytime I break one, I will buy 2 more. I didnt break it before I whacked a few good ones though. Remember that first place I marked for you and Russ? I had to put one of my rods down the bite was so furious there, but only for about 30 minutes. I lost a large mouth crappie in the deal. I think it was the same one Russ lost there.