Most of the surf rods I build are spinning setups. Lately though, I have seen a sharp increase of guys asking for conventional. I'm not talking about rods for 4-6 oz. + bait. They want to throw 1-3 oz plugs. Perhaps the new easy casting reels on the market are the cause. Has any one else seen this? What blank/guide conbinations are you using?

Bob Barlas

I've had about equal number of requests for spinning and conventional - my "go to" blanks are RAINSHADOW 1207's and 1264's . I really liked the 1262's also when they were in the Surf Rod series. For the folks who want to try lighter surf rods I've made two on DR1266 (salmon/steelhead) blanks (3/4 -3oz rated blanks). For anyone who wants to go a little heavier in lure weights I move to the SU1267's.

Ken,

Thanks for your recommendation. I was going to ask you the same question in Charlotte. I don't do alot of saltwater fishing (about once a year). The rod I have is less than desireable. Now I know what to "shake" in Charlotte. See you there!

Ed

lamiglas gsb1201L

I would echo the previous. I often fish a Lamiglas PSB1202L with an ABU 6500. It is very light, throws 2-3oz a mile and has handled large fish. The PSB is the old Perigee blank that I bought on clearance, but I think the GSB mentioned above would be very similar, just a little lower modulus on the graphite.

Ed -
I think you've got the idea.... Wait until Charlotte and go "shake a few". Batson will be there and Custom Tackle Supply carries the Lamiglas line up and you can also check some others -heck you've got all day (at least)!