A method and structure for providing improved tactile response in fiber reinforced polymer composite materials is disclosed. The effect is achieved by jacketing the reinforcing carbon fiber with a thin coating of non-carbide forming metal, such as nickel. The resulting chemical and mechanical discontinuity at the fiber/coating interface allows for more transient energy to be retained within the fiber, while the strong chemical bond of the polymer matrix to the metal coating assures mechanical integrity of the composite. The result is a composite which retains its characteristic weight, stiffness, and strength, but exhibits increased low frequency vibrational sensitivity in composite applications, such as for fishing rods and other recreational equipment.
