I have flown a lot in (NC, FL, Utah, Montana) and out of the country (Belize 2x) and usually carry 3, 4 piece rods. I duct tape the tubes together and slide them on top of my medium north face duffel that I carry on. Never had an issue. I may reconsider the 3 piece but you may not have a problem.
TSA has bitched about pliers multiple times but never actually taken them. -Elijah
