I've been asked to build a rod for a retirement gift.

Not sure how much money's in the kitty, but estimating between $100-$150.

The gentleman has 40 years in gov't service and is retiring to trout fish in Utah.

Any suggestions on blanks, guides, etc.

It'll be a spinning rod but reel is unknow.

Try to find out what he has now and what he uses. This way it will give you an idea,

George,

It depends on how the person likes to fish and what their preferences are, but a really nice rod for trout is the St Croix Avid 7' 2 pc ultra light. It is rated for 2-6 lb line (maybe 2-8) and 1/32 - 1/8 oz lures. It has plenty of backbone down low, but has a moderate action that is nice for trout. I built one with the concept system and alconite guides for a customer here in PA (as a light river rod for bass, panfish, and walleye) and he loves it.

Set up with an 8" tennessee ring grip from custom tackle (with the aluminum spin rings), alconites guides, and nice wraps and you're looking at a sweet trout rod.

Thanks,
Rick

I built one for a guy in Cal. He loved it

I too like the St. Croixs allot.

Thanks for all the tips. I have $110, so an Avid, Alconites, and a handle should do the trick.

I'll also snoop around and find out what he currently fishes with. That'll be fun.