Is there something that can be put on fiberglass rod to help keep the fiberglass shards off your hands. I thought someone would have some insight into this...

Short of some sort of plastic dip i can't think of anything that would flex with the glass.

You can buy rods that are coated. They call it a veil and is a thin plastic sleeve with cross hatched threads. I bought fiberglass tree stakes that are like this.

you can paint them, but it'll probably chip off after awhile

Gelcoat-If color isn’t an issue you can sometimes find white somewhat reasonably.

Varnish, as in fishing rod varnish. Varnish, as in cedar arrow sealer/dip.

You can make a dip tube out of pvc.

I’ll probably try to dip some in a varnish... I like the dea of dipping in a pipe

Matt; if you’re going to use the rods under water. Get the marine grade.

I know this doesn’t help, but so you know you’re not alone, I wear gloves when dealing with any of my fiberglass.

Interesting I'd like to see those up close

My rods are 10 years old and still ok. Purchased them from farmtek.

https://www.growerssupply.com/farm/supplies/prod1;gs_growing_supplies-gs_fasteners_plant_supports_2;pg109108.html

I have the eight footers.

After a couple of years in the weather, they are terrible to work with. I've worn gloves but if you brush against them, they get you. The only idea I have is shrink wrap tubing but it's probably cheaper to buy new rods. https://www.mcmaster.com/shrink-wrap-tubing/heat-shrink-tubing-6/ bottom of the page "long lengths"

Mine are going on ten years with only a few minor nicks in the veil.

Mine are going on ten years with only a few minor nicks in the veil.

Very Nice Warrior