Reel Seat vs. Cork Tape

[Billy V]

Cork is nice.

You'll be able to mount your reel exactly where you want to find the fulcrum and maximize your casting ability.

Cork gives the best grip when wet, and is comfortable to fish.
However it can wear out after a few years depending on how hard you use the rod.

- it all depends, it can last a long time as well. I have some very old rods where the cork is still serviceable, but has become brittle. Sometimes I will peel it off and replace it completely, or place a new layer on top making the grip slightly larger.
Its versatile.

This is not expensive to replace and can be done by yourself for about $10

More than half my rods are cork.