I have a friend who wants me to build him a 8'6" or 9' 8wt. fly rod for Great Lakes (MI) steelhead that will balance with a Harris Solitude reel.

I have re-read the Rodbuilder article on fly rod balancing and understand how to go about it. I was wondering, though, if anyone with more experience than I with various blanks might know of a good blank that balances with that particular reel. This would save me the hassle and expense of simply ordering several blanks, testing them all with the reel, and hoping to find one that worked.

Or maybe there's another way to figure this out...?

Thanks, Bryon Anderson

Would need to know which reel, there's a almost full oz. spread of reel weight in the upper weight reels depending on the style and size.

I figured that would be the case...of course I figured it after I'd already sent the post (duh). I'll try to find out and re-post. Thanks.

Bryon

You don't want to order a blank based on how it will balance. All blanks of the same length and line weight will balance in a fairly similar location. Order the blank that will offer the customer the feel and performance he wants and then balance it yourself if you feel it needs it.

I find I can usually get the balance where I want by alternating between a wood insert or a cork insert in the reel seat.

Another way to "ballance" the rod is by experimenting with up , and down locking seat configurations. Grip length and well placement will help also. the different incert materials as William mentioned will round out your ways to do it. With all those things to concider you shouldn't have any problems. Get 'r done, John

Detachable fighting butts can add considerable weight, as do all metal reels seats and wood grips.

Great suggestions--thanks everyone! This is going to be easier than I thought, and that's always a pleasant surprise.

Regards,
Bryon