About Hard Truth Rods
At Hard Truth Rods, we believe in one simple principle: getting exactly what you need — in fishing and in life. It’s a belief rooted in honesty, craftsmanship, and the idea that you don’t have to settle for less than what’s right. In a world full of shortcuts and noise, we cut through it all to deliver the hard truth: quality matters, and the right tools make all the difference.
Every Hard Truth rod is built by hand, right here in Iowa, for real people — not for trends, gimmicks, or mass-market gloss. We make rods for those who wake up early to hit the water before the wind picks up, who know the difference between a good cast and a lucky one, and who value precision and purpose over flash. Our mission is to serve the anglers who fish not to escape life, but to live it more fully — who know that time on the water isn’t just a hobby, it’s a way of connecting to something honest.
We’re not here to tell you what you should want. We’re here to help you get what you truly need. Because when your gear is built with intention — with experience behind every wrap, every guide, every blank — you fish with confidence. And when you fish with confidence, you find clarity. That’s the Hard Truth.
We know not everyone’s ready for it. Some think the latest high-tech gadget will solve everything. Some think a brand name means more than performance. But those who know, know. They’ve felt the difference. And they’ve come to understand that quality can’t be rushed, and authenticity can’t be faked. The Hard Truth isn’t about being the loudest; it’s about being the most dependable. It’s about rods that hold up to the test — of fish, of time, and of life.
We stand for small-batch, not mass production. For real talk, not sales talk. For listening to what anglers truly need, and building rods that meet those needs with care, consistency, and pride. Because you deserve something built with your purpose in mind — not something built for a shelf in a warehouse.
At the heart of everything we do is a commitment to integrity. From the first cut to the final wrap, each Hard Truth rod carries the spirit of hard work, honest effort, and a deep respect for the craft. We’re not just building rods. We’re building tools for better moments, better memories, and better fishing.
The Hard Truth is this: once you fish with something made for you, something made right, you don’t go back. And whether you realize it yet or not, you’re better off with the Hard Truth.
Custom Orders
Each custom built Hard Truth Rod is individually handcrafted by owner, Glen Cook, in Underwood, Iowa. Each custom build varies in price and consists of:
•one of a premium blank
•a reel seat
•guides
•a stainless steel hook keeper
•choice of 2 thread colors (main & trim)
•decals (rod specifications, American flag, state flag, or game fish decal, and basic personalization decal (Text, name, dates, etc.)
•Feather inlays and decorative thread wraps are considered upgrades and will be charged accordingly.
The options are endless and I’m looking forward to building you the best rod you can put your hands on.
All quotes are for the price of the rod only. We specialize in freshwater, inshore, and ice fishing rods. Please send us a message being as specific as possible so that we can get the best idea of exactly what you’re looking for. Please include:
•the desired length and action
•choice of grip material
•description of any personalization (name, decal, logo, image, etc.) you wish to add.
We will reach out to review your options, choices, and answer any questions you may have. Once we have all of the information we need, we can prepare a quote.
Before we begin your build we will reach out to confirm your specifications to ensure we have everything correct.
When your order is ready, we’ll either arrange a local delivery/pickup for Southwest Iowa customers or ship your order anywhere in the U.S. for a flat $50.00 fee. (Rods exceeding 8ft in length are subject to additional shipping charges)
Please leave your contact information in a message below so we can reach out to you and begin the process!
Warranty
60 DAY MONEY BACK GUARANTEE
We are confident that you will be completely satisfied with your purchase of a Hard Truth Rod. Our rods are crafted with precision and care using high-quality materials and are designed to exceed your expectations on the water.
To demonstrate our commitment to your satisfaction, we offer a 60-day money back guarantee. If for any reason you are not satisfied with your rod within 60 days of purchase, simply submit a claim and we can begin your refund process.
We stand behind the quality and craftsmanship of our rods, and we are confident that you will be completely satisfied with your purchase.
Thank you for your interest in Hard Truth Rods, we look forward to providing you with the best fishing experience possible.
Hard Truth Rods, LLC. 2 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY PROTOCOL
Hard Truth Rods, LLC. offers a 2-year limited warranty on all of our rods. This limited warranty guarantees that the rod is free from any manufacturer/workmanship defects. This limited warranty is determined by Hard Truth Rods, LLC. and does not cover damage from abuse, accidents, modifications or tampering in any way. Lost or stolen rods are not covered by this warranty. Each warranty claim will be addressed individually by Hard Truth Rods, LLC. If the damage is determined to be covered by the warranty program, we will repair or replace the rod with an exact or latest comparable model at no cost to the customer. No changes or adjustments are permitted. Each rod is entitled to one warranty replacement if granted by our team. Shipping charges are not covered by the Hard Truth Rods, LLC. Limited Warranty Program. For damages that are within 2 years from date of purchase, but are not covered under the warranty program, we offer a “No-Hassle” Replacement Program. Rods can be replaced for $120.00 (+ shipping & handling) REQUIREMENTS:1. You must provide proof of purchase 2. You must be the original owner of the rod being warranted 3. All broken pieces must be sent to Hard Truth Rods, LLC. to be inspected. (You will be responsible for shipping costs)
To begin the warranty process, please email us at glen@hardtruthrods.com with a detailed account of what happened to your rod. Please be as detailed as possible. Your honesty is appreciated and makes this process much faster and easier. Someone from our team will reach out to you regarding your claim as soon as possible.
