About Downeast Rod Co.

My name is Tyler and I’m from Machias, Maine. I’ve spent my entire life in the Downeast area, fishing the waters I grew up around for brook trout, landlocked salmon, smallmouth bass, and striped bass.

I’ve always enjoyed working with my hands and understanding how things are made. As a land surveyor by trade, precision and attention to detail are a big part of what I do every day. Those same qualities naturally carried over into rod building. What started as repairing and improving my own fishing rods eventually became a way to create something better suited to my own style of fishing—and eventually for other anglers as well.

Downeast Rod Co. was created from that idea: building custom rods that are high quality, affordable, and personal. Rather than choosing from a limited selection of factory options, anglers can be part of the process and create a rod that fits their fishing style, preferences, and personality.

I believe the best rods are built with quality components, and careful workmanship. I strive to use the best materials available and source American-made components whenever possible, not because quality only comes from one place, but because I value knowing where the materials come from and what goes into each build. Every rod is built one at a time, by hand, with the goal of creating something that is truly unique to the person fishing it.

I also have two young children who are starting to enjoy fly fishing, and I love being able to share those experiences with them on the water. For me, fishing has always been about more than catching fish—it’s about time outdoors, memories, and the connection we build with the places we fish.

Whether you’re looking for a custom build, a repair, or just want to talk fishing, I’m always happy to hear from you.