A. We custom build every one of rods. Although we maintain a large inventory of components. Altenkirch rods are designed to meet the specific needs of your application offering different blank composites, line weights, lengths and actions with options for selecting different components. Rod blanks are hand-picked and splined before the components are assembled and the rods hand-wrapped and finished by our custom rod builders and rod wrappers. We do maintain a large inventory of components and generally begin the process of building your rod when the order is received. Therefore, since each rod is assembled and finished by hand, completion and shipment of your order may take up to 30 days and will last a lifetime.

Q. I don't see the rod I want in my choice of color?

A. There are so many different wrap styles and color combinations we can't possibly show them all, so give us a call and our rod wrappers will be happy to finish your rod in your boat colors or even reproduce a logo or identity for incorporation in the finishing stages of building your rod.

Q. Why are International shipping rates so high?

A. Because fishing rods are packed in large boxes they are subject to a "Dimensional" shipping rate by carriers. These rates ignore the weight of the package and charge by the overall dimensions of the box. We encourage our customers to utilize the Bongo International shipping service to take advantage of substantial savings on International shipping rates. Visit our "Shipping" page for more information.

Q. I want my rod built to meet my specific needs. Who can I talk to?

A. Altenkirch Outfitters is the oldest rod builders in the US, since 1930. Hank Altenkirch is a 3rd generation rod builder with over 45 years of rod design and building expertise. Hank Altenkirch is considered legendary amongst his peers. We encourage our customers to speak directly with Hank Altenkirch to ensure that you get the rod built to your specification and needs utilizing Hank's expert guidance.

Q. Where are you located and can I visit your shop?

A. We are at our new location in Hampton Bays, New York, just a few blocks from our old retail location where we were so well known by notable people and our loyal customers for more than 45 years. Hank Altenkirch encourages our customers to come visit his shop and he'll give you a tour. The shop is a virtual sport fishing museum that houses so much memorabilia: old photos, artwork and vintage rods and reels. It is here that Hank Altenkirch will show you the process, and reveal his secrets of how his rods are precision built and meticulously finished. When your tour is complete you will understand what makes an "Altenkirch" rod so unique. Give us a call to schedule a visit and meet your legendary rod builder.