Hi guys
I'm building my very first rod and i need a lot of help. It's a calstar GF 800L w/ a cork tape handle. My question is what is the best way to decide how long the handle should be? should i go by the length of my arms? Any advice its most appreciated. Thanks in advance

Chris,

I thought someone else might answer this. I have limited time today but will give you some quick pointers.

You have to both cast and fish the rod, so handle length is usually a compromise between the two. You need enough length so you can gain some leverage as well as be able to fight a fish with yourarms and not your wrist. Keep in mind that on a casting rod you may hold the rod in one place to cast it and another to fish it.

I would suggest taping your seat on and going out and trying some test casting. See what feels best after spending some time with it. Take your favorite rod now, one of similar length and power and think about how you like the handle length on it. Longer? Shorter? Your past experience with your other rods can help you in this regard.

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Thanks Tom. I will try you sugestions and see how it works out.

I do not have much experience in the area, but would recommend that you take a similar rod that you really like, and use those measurements as a starting point.

Tape the reel and feel how it balances in your hands. move it up or down until you like it, and then build your rod.

Read this board as much as possible before starting. There is incredible information here.

Good luck!

TH