Finally pulling trigger on refurbishing an old H-I Governor. Have tied flies for years but this is first dip into rod work of any kind. Read enough great information to confuse me, though Al Campbell's teachings have been extra helpful (Had honor of meeting him in Rapid City and he was bigger than life. Miss him). Been practicing skills and acquiring basic tools/supplies. So far, sanded the rod finish and rubbed with tongue oil - followed by hard wax each time - 4 times. Before I wrap guides, etc, do I want to (or can I?) leave as a waxed finish or should the rod finish truly be varnish or polyurethane?

I intend to periodically fish the rod. Have built handful of primitive items and love a hard wax finish on wood but could use advice from experience. Looking forward to doing the work to bring this rod back to fight another fish.. Thank you in advance.

grassman