I just picked a Lami GSA 102 2H 2 piece blank, want to build it for west coast salmon fishing. Present for my Dad. My rod building experience has been limited to only east coast saltwater bass and cod rods.

Any suggestions on the grip lengths, guides, for this type of rod. He will be using a bait cast/conventional type reel, from a boat, mostly trolling. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!!!

Thanks, Sean

Sean,
I'd go with a 14 inch cork rear grip, at least a 17 mm trigger reelseat to ensure both freshwater and light saltwater sized reel feet will fit, Spiral wrapped guides starting with a high frame 16, low frame 12, 10, 8, and 6 ceramic fly guides with a 6 tip. I prefer a shortened 18 mm reelseat and the old cigar tip shaped foregrips on the Lamiglas salmon rods due to the comfortable way they pack down the river bank, and proportionally I like the looks. E-mail me for specifics if you like.

Hello Sean
Spencer's suggestions look real good and I have one more suggestion to consider. Depending on the type of trolling done. If he will be using Down riggers with pole holders on the down rigger- consider using a compostite cork wrapped rear grip for a couple of reasons:
1. They are more easily removed from the pole holder under load of large fish
2. The wear very well and are tough while giving a very secure grip under all fishing conditions

Regards Joe Kassuba

Thanks for the info guys!!

Spencer, I tried to email you, not sure if you got it, was having trouble getting it to send.

Sean