I've built some lighter rods on spiral wrap but this is my first go at 5'6" Spiral wrap rods on Standup fast taper.

Would like some opinions for those who've done it. What number of guides used to the set up guide and total number and then what size guides used.

At the present I'm planning 7+1 guides. One butt guide, 2 spiral and the other 4 at the bottom + one tiptop. For the 30# I'm starting with 8,8,8,10,10,10, 16.

The 50#, 10,10,10, 12,12,12, 16.

Thanks

My last 5'8" 40-50lb rod I did with 20, 16, 12, 10 (1st 180) and 10's out to the tip. I do not have my records with me, but I believe total # of guides was 7 + TT.

Butt guide size is predicated on width of reel spool, distance to reel face, height of reel, angle of rotation and a couple of other dozen factors :)

Generically, since you're talking about 30 and 50# line, I'm going to assume medium to largish reels so I'd think a minimum of a 20mm sized ring.

What guides are you thinking about?

My personal preference is to go with the smallest guide that'll do the job as quick as possible. Maybe 20, 16, 12, 10, 8, 7, 7, 7, 8 Tip for the 30# and 20, 16, 12, 10, 10, 10, 10, and 12 Tip for the 50#.

The reason to jump a size on the tip is the better heat absorbtion in the bigger ring as the tip will generate more friction that the guide behind it. Also, depending on the type of blank you choose, getting a 10 ring may not be an option as glass tends to have thicker tips.

Sang An, I was thinking of 16 for the butt guide as the rod will be spiralled and the line position would lower than the conventional. But hey I've yet to set up the rod with the reel to see how things go. I'm flexible.

the 50# tip fits the 10 ring tip I got. Couldn't find a 12 tip here. Would prefer larger rings for the 50# to allow smoother passage of the shock leader knot.

Thanks to all for their input.

A taller guide (20 vs 16) helps the setup by allowing you to place the guide futher away and start the spiral with more rotation.