For 48 years, with over 20 IGFA world records caught on RodsbyDru, my mission has remained steadfast: to create exceptional custom fishing rods that empower anglers to catch their dream fish, break world records, or secure tournament victories with unwavering confidence in their tackle.
My dedication to staying on the cutting edge of tackle innovation and my commitment to never compromise on quality has made my RodsbyDru a name synonymous with excellence in the fishing industry.
Each rod I craft is not just a piece of equipment; it's a work of art meticulously designed to match the individual angler's needs, ensuring a beautiful and personalized fishing experience with your custom offshore rod.
In 1975, fresh out of college, I received a commission to set the stage for my life-long work in the industry. Ed and Frank Murray entrusted me with creating the "Ultra Series" line of tackle for the renowned Murray Brothers store in Palm Beach—my attention to detail and commitment to quality shone through in every rod I crafted.
Purpose Built
Throughout the years, my reputation as a master rod builder grew. In the early '90s, I was approached by Tim Chote to craft rods for his fishing fleet, including boats in Guatemala, Brazil, and the Galapagos Islands. I was very fortunate to have my work noticed, and from there, I created a line of special edition "splatter" rods for Johnny Morris's Bass Pro Shops.
As the business flourished, our custom rods became highly coveted among world-class fishermen and tournament boats. The craftsmanship and dedication to innovation ensured that anglers had the utmost confidence in their tackle.
Today, RodsbyDru is the preferred outfitter for the prestigious "Tropic Star Lodge" in Piñas Bay, Panama, and sponsors the popular sportfishing TV program, "Angler's Journal," hosted by John Brownlee. I am very fortunate my clients consistently win in some of the most prestigious fishing tournaments worldwide.
The Materials
RodsbyDru has Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 customization capabilities. We focus on building with Graphite blanks. The RodsbyDru team uses cork grips handmade by their in-house craftsman, lasting longer than other grips due to attention to the preservation process. Check out the gallery to get some ideas of what can be done for your next custom saltwater rod.
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See What Makes RodsbyDru Unique
For over 48 years, Dru Thompson has been deeply involved in a labor of love. When you get a Dru Thompson Rod, you get years of knowledge in crafting a custom fishing rod and the benefit of over 100,000 hours of use in the "field." This combination of time-under-testing ensures you are getting a rod that fits your fishing style and will perform when in demand.
It started with being commissioned by Tim Chote to build for the fleet at Fins and Feathers Inn in Guatemala, and Tim's operations in Brazil and the Galapagos. In the following years, Drew made a complete line of special edition "splatter" rods for Johnny Morris. As the business grew, the brand's reputation only advanced, catching big-named tournament boats' attention. Today, RodsbyDru outfits the world-renowned "Tropic Star Lodge" in Piñas Bay, Panam, andhsponsoring the sportfishing TV show, "Angler's Journal", hosted by John Brownlee.
These are the times that matter the most.
Since 1975, Dru’s goal has been to create exceptional and custom fishing experiences, doing his best never to compromise. "I want your rods designed around you catching that lifetime fish, world record, or winning a tournament with ultimate confidence in your tackle."
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