Maybe Dupli-Color ? I've never tried it, but thats the only paint I can remember from auto-parts stores. Years ago, Zynolyte was a pretty good spray for rods. Believe it or not, Krylon worked well on a 2pc heavy surfrod I did. Slight problem with ding chips so touched them up, and flex-coated the whole rod with lite-build (1 coat). You can't tell it from a brand new hi-gloss blank. Depending on action and rod type, the extra weight may cause problems, but where sensitivity/weight is'nt an issue (surfchunkin' for bullreds) it really worked well.

 

use the dupli color then clear coat, but make sure you prep the rod good first or you will have roblems with fish eyes and oil spots, wash thourghly with soap and water then dewax before sanding

 

Be careful about using clear coat with some of the Dupli-Color paints. Read before coating. Some of the paints don't call for clear coat. I've actually had the clear coat peel right off.

I now use paints designed for painting RC lexon car bodys applyed with an air brush, then coat with gloss spar urethane. Allow a week or so to cure and no problems.