I'm wanting to match a blank to a Shimano Curado 200 BSF reel. I'm using 8lb test. What I would be using this blank for is Speckled Trout tossing 1/4-1/2 jig heads with Fin-S or Cocaho grubs. I have the reel mounted on a G-USA B70M now and it just doesn't feel right. I'm thinking a lighter/smaller tip and mod-fast or moderate action blank would be a better. Just wondering if someone who might have some suggestions or experience with this setup could help me out?

Thanks,
Steve

I am having the same problem. I have 2 friends that have built the Loomis P844GL2 and really like it, then I saw the BESP845 from all star and hit the breaks...the all star has a much smaller butt, and weighs less than 2oz, the loomis does not list blank weights,....

because of this, I am planning on building the all star....

Good Luck !!

Steve,
You didn't mention anything about blank weights like tommy did, but if blank weight isn't too much of an issue, you could try the Cape fear rods. If blank weight is an issue, I have a few suggestiongs with the two most prominent being the 7'6" 4-10 X-tra fast SCIII St. Croix spinning rod built up as a casting rod. It works beautifully, but your guide placement must be flawless. Also, the GUSA bass rods in the x-tra fast actions either 8-15 or 10-17. Both are great rods. My personal choice actually might be too light for you and that is the GUSA 6'6" or 7'0" 2-10 x-tra fast. Don't let the x-tra fast ratings throw you off. The GUSA x-tra fast in the 2-10 make incredible rods because even though the tip is incredibly soft, the rod significantly bends quite a ways down - almost like a moderate action. Only drawback is that they ain't the best for driving huge hooks home as they're too soft for that. A good Cape Fear choice (though heavier than GUSA) is the bass tech 7'0" 8-17. It's got a really soft tip, great butt power, and is forgiving to rolling and jumping fish. Hope something here helps. Cheers.

Steve,
The Cascade Composite XP842 popping blank from Mudhole I think would cover your needs, was my favorite weight rod for bonefish and specks when I lived in Florida. A natural 8 lb test rod.

Spencer

Steve,
I would suggest you look at the Loomis HS9000. It is available in either GL3 or IMX. I fish mine with a Chronarch and find it has a soft tip but plenty of backbone. It's 7'6" but you can shorten it from the butt if you want. Good luck!

The Cascade XP842 listed above is excellent for specs. If there are also redfish in the equation I would drop back to the IP842 which not quite as fragil. Good luck finding one - gone gone since the factory closed. I built quite a few in the past couple of years and am searching for a replacement.

Gon Fishn

Bill,
We have the IP842 rainshadow in stock.They are the true rainshadow blanks with the warranty card.
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