Greetings all. I have built several flyrods to date and wish to build a Spinning Rod in the 6-8 # test range for my 9yr old nephew - he has been fishing for small schoolie bluefish and wants a lighter wt rod. Any suggestions on blanks, reel seats, etc would be most welcome.

Many thanks in advance,

Bailey

Bailey, Will he be fishing from a boat, poier or surf? I don't know where yoe are located, but here in the Northeast schoolie Bluefish will put 8# test line through the ringer. I'd suggest using 20# braid which has a similar diameter and a much higher tensile strength. Plus,you never know when a real Chopper Blue will appear. Steel leaders are an absolute necessity.

As for the blank of choice the length depends upon the fishing method. From the surf or jetty I'd go with at least an 8' blank with 8-17# rating. For ease of travel consider a 2 pc model. St. Croix and Lami will give yoa nice assortment to choose among. If you want to go first rate look into the Lamiglas Ron Arra line. St. Croix's Avid line is another winner. Rainshadow and the few discontinued Allstars around are also good choices. The Fuji New Concept System with Alconite guides will do a great job and not break the bank. A set of Titanium guides would be ideal as they are corrosion proof and very light. As you can see there are many choices here. The anniversary sale at FishStix4U should work wellin your favor on this project. If it is a surf rod I would go with the 1266 models available. They'll cast much further than the 8-9ft rods. Good luck. graphite reel seats are much more comfy in colder weather, preferably with the cusioned hoods. Check out the Quantum line of spinning reels for this rig. Super reels awith great corrosion resistance. If you want to go top drawer attach a Van Staal VS 100 to 150 and he'll have an ultimate set up.
Dave

Hey Dave:

Many thanks for the suggestions - he is casting primarily from a small bridge and small boat.

Best,

Bailey