In this episode of the Saltwater Edge Podcast, we sit down with Ralph Craft, founder of Crafty One Customs, a master rod builder whose fishing rods are used across 49 states and 33 countries. Ralph shares his journey from military service to becoming a globally respected figure in custom rod design, his passion for saltwater fishing, and his mission to preserve the sport’s future.

We discuss:

• The art of rod building and gear optimization for big game like bluefin tuna

• His Prince Edward Island bluefin trips

• Efforts to educate anglers about the impact of offshore wind farms

• How Ralph supports local communities through events like the Teddy Bear Toss and pediatric cancer fundraisers

• Why shopping local matters now more than ever

If you're passionate about fishing, conservation, or want to learn about building better tackle for serious offshore action—this one's for you.

📍 Timestamps:

00:00 - Intro to Ralph Craft and Crafty One Customs
01:20 - How Ralph got started in fishing
02:20 - From freshwater to saltwater fishing
03:00 - Love for Rhode Island’s fishery
05:18 - Fishing as a way to mark time
06:00 - Tog fishing and sustainability
07:38 - The importance of responsible angling
08:48 - Balancing business with conservation
09:14 - Fishing breaks down barriers
10:00 - Ralph’s military background and beliefs
11:04 - Supporting local vs. big box retailers
14:23 - Custom rod building as an art form
16:15 - Testing rods on Prince Edward Island
19:10 - How rod design helps with technique and injuries
24:16 - Rod performance and fishing technique tips
26:00 - How to choose the right rod for different species
28:00 - Casting, reel setups, and rod building education
30:00 - What is acid wrap and why it matters
33:00 - Why rods are the most underrated investment
36:00 - Aesthetics vs. function in rod building
40:12 - Ralph’s community work: Teddy Bear Toss & cancer support
44:13 - Wind farms: impact on fishery & local communities
47:00 - Environmental concerns of offshore wind
50:00 - Superheating water and fish migration disruptions
53:00 - Why anglers need to stay informed
58:00 - Final thoughts on protecting what we love