I may have just posted a partial message accidentally so I'll try again.

Have any of you built the Rogue SJ702S yet. I'm getting ready to do one and can't decide on a spinning handle/grip. I prefer something other than the standard Fuji spin seat. I would like one that would put your forefinger on cork or something other than the hooded ring. I'm also going with the Fuji Alconites and the new concept system. Some in the past have suggested starting with a 25 instead of a 30 for the first guide. I'm open to any and all suggestions. I don't change rods very often so when I get one the way I like it I fish it forever and want to get this right the first time.

Thanks for any suggestions you might have.

Ron Greenbank

Ron,

Make sure you take a look in the volume 7 #1 RodMaker for the article on the smallmouth bass river rod. I think that handle would work great on your blank and you'd find it really comfortable. In many ways, it sounds exactly like what you're after.

..........

I find that a size 25 is just fine for the 1000 - 3000 series Shimano reels. That's my most used first ring.

For people that don't like holding reel seats I use a skeleton seat. I put the hooded ring of the skeleton inside the cork. I glue the hood inside a pair of rings and then glue up around that. Fore grip and insert all in one. I turn that to shape and then where the reel foot will sit, I flatten that out and that exposes the front hood where the reel foot enters the hood. The only part of the skeleton seat that is visible is the rear hood/threaded barrel.

Rod Wrap is a great product for wrapping reel seats and using on Tennessee handles.

Better to have and not need than to need and not have.

Hello
I built one of these this past summer for Lake Erie Walleyes.I used The Fuji Alconites as well,starting with the size 25mm.I used a FUJI CORK CONCEALED HOOD SPINNING HANDLE KIT.You can check this handle out at Janns Netcraft if you wish.I am happy with this setup.Joel