There are several companies that will do custom water-slide decals. These are the same thing that modelers use to add graphics to cars, planes, boats , etc. They are very resistant to fading and can be applied under a layer of epoxy for increased protection. I build fishing rods too, & I use these labels to add logos & description to my rods tha are equal or better to the graphics you see on commercial products. There are also peel & stick decals that are only slightly thicker, but the edges would certainly disappear with an epoxy overcoat.
Here's a company to look into if you're interested in this approach...
http://www.decalconnection.com/
- Bob