I have a Batson Rainshadow ISB721 that I built a couple years back. It is set up like a regular spinning rod with these guides; 25, 16, 12, 10 and two 8's and an 8 top. All single foot fuji hardloy.I use 8lb line on it with about 1/4 ounce lures. I've measured my casts and can throw about 83 to 85 feet consistently. This is enough for what I do with it. More than I need really.

I have studied the new guide concept articles on this site and in the magazine. Last week I decided to strip the rod back down and set it up in that way. I used concept alconites in 20, 16, 10 and then 7's in low single foot to the tip. I used 7 guides in all plus a top. It seems just like what the articles say it should be.

Here's my problem. The rod balances better and feels lighter. I like it a lot. But the casting distance hasn't changed much. I've spent two nights outside measuring and my average throw seems to be about 87 or 88 feet with the same reel, line and 1/4 ounce casting plug. Is this reasonable? Shouldn't I be getting a lot more distance? Did I do something wrong? Just really curious after all I'd heard about it.

I'm not expert on this system but have used it and like it. I think I remember reading where Tom has said you have to look at the whole package of benefits it offers and not just the distance, which I think he said was only about a 3% to 5% increase.

The interesting thing is that when you look at your casting distances you see that you got almost exactly a 3% to 4% increase in overall average distance!

I would say you did everything right and now have a rod that is lighter, balances better and casts a little bit farther than before. In my book that would be hard to complain about.

Ben,
You say that the rod balances better and feels better and you are getting almost 5% more distance. Sounds pretty good to me. I don't think that you can expect much more than that.

Properly implemented, a new guide concept system will offer you about 3% to 5% greater casting distance than a well implemented cone of flight system. I know it doesn't sound like much, but when coupled with better balance and less overall weight, it adds up to a more pleasant fishing experience.

Fish the rod a few times and I'm betting you'll not return to any other guide system on future rods.

..........

Ben,

I don't know about you, but I go fishing primarily to catch fish, not cast.

Getting the extra distance is great, but with a lighter, more balanced rod, you will find that you feel softer hits and have less fatigue in your wrists at the end of the day.

Personally, I'd sacrifice a little distance for such advantages, but fortunately, you don't have to sacrifice anything with the concept system.


TH