For Rod Builders
RodSmith is the marketplace built specifically for custom rod builders. Your spec sheets are your listings — every component documented, every build searchable by the anglers looking for exactly what you make. No listing fees, no monthly charges, and your first five orders are completely free.
General marketplaces treat a handcrafted rod like any other product. RodSmith charges a flat 3% — and nothing at all on your first five orders.
| Platform | Marketplace fee | On a $525 sale you keep* |
|---|---|---|
| RodSmith | 3% — first 5 orders free, no listing fees | ~$494 |
| Etsy | ~6.5% transaction fee + $0.20 per listing | ~$475 |
| eBay | ~13% final value fee | ~$457 |
*Approximate net after marketplace and card-processing fees on a $500 rod + $25 shipping; competitor rates are their published 2026 fees for comparable categories — check their fee schedules for specifics. RodSmith example assumes the 3% fee applies (after your first five free orders).
Payments run through Stripe. As you deliver orders and build a track record, your payouts get faster — automatically.
50% released when you ship with tracking, 50% on delivery. Weekly payouts — in your bank roughly 7–14 days after shipping.
100% released when you ship. Daily payouts — in your bank roughly 3–5 days after shipping.
Paid the moment the buyer is charged, with daily payouts and a Trusted Builder badge on your profile. Roughly 2–3 business days to your bank.
Full tier criteria and the order lifecycle are documented in Builder Payouts & Fees.
Document the blank, guides, seat, and wraps once — buyers browse by platform, water, and material, and see exactly what your work is made of.
Buyers who want something you haven't built yet send a commission inquiry with their water, technique, and budget attached.
Card processing, payouts, and tax collection run on Stripe — you never handle a buyer's payment details.
Buy discounted labels in the order flow, and tracking updates the buyer (and your payout) automatically.