Not that different, actually, but it depends on the manufacturer and rod line. Some use epoxy, some use urethane, etc. Some finishes are more opaque than others, but the ones where you can see the weave of the cloth through the finish have some sort of clear coat finish, either tinted, or, in the case of olive colored graphite cloth, the finish is clear and you're seeing the actual graphite color underneath.
If you are trying to do this yourself, automotive clear coat is the way to go. Two part urethane clear coat is the toughest and longest lasting. Alternatively, Permagloss (the pre-catalyzed urethane wrap finish) can be applied by hand to a bare rod blank with a foam applicator (hole in the foam to get even application). Before embarking on a project like this, I'd recommend you go to rodbuilding.org and search for this topic.
-CC
Reply With Quote