Abstract: A method and apparatus for the electroless nickel plating of long bodies including a deep tank capable of supporting at least one long body in a substantially vertical position and immersed in an electroless nickel plating solution, a fluid distribution system including a plurality of vertically spaced sparger outlets within the tank and means for discharging filtered, heated, plating solution through the sparger outlets generally directed toward or around the long body within the tank to provide directionalized dispersion of the solution throughout substantially the full depth of the tank.