Always transport and store your new rod in its rod case. Most rods are broken during travel. Nothing ends a fly fishing trip faster than setting a heavy cooler on the top of a fly rod.
Take extra care when stringing your rod. Thread a look of fly line through the guides and tip top and pull the line and leader through without bending the rod.
When using weighted or large flies, adjust to an open casting stroke. (a fly hitting the rod can also damage the blank)
Avoid severe rod angles when fighting and landing fish. Snagged flies should be broken off by pulling on the line with the rod tip pointed directly at the snag.
Take the rod apart when you are done fishing to avoid stuck ferrules.
Completely air dry your rod and place it in a cloth bag and tube before storing. The rod tubes can trap moisture, which can swell reel seats and ruin the rod finish.
Rinse after each use and occasionally clean your rod with warm water and soap and completely dry.