Building two of these for my brother in law who fishes the Moon River in Canada. He trolls and casts. Using 8-9 guides, not sure yet, but I have two questions since I'm not that familar at all about Muskie fishing. These blanks are like pool sticks and he said thats what he wants!

1. Using Forcast baitcasting guides for the first time. I've noticed the feet have been pre-prepped from the factory. How much more work should I do on the feet?

2. Wish to do a underwrap on the guides and diamond. Is there any reason why a muskie rod should not have underwraps?

A-1: As much (or as little) additional prep as needed. YMMV.
A-2: No - Underwrap to your heart's content. That "pool cue" is a weapon, not a fairy wand. Extra weight is not an issue. Boldness or strength is. ... IMO, ... -Cliff Hall+++

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Robert Tignor
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(804) 746-0053



Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 01/25/2006 04:59PM by Cliff Hall.

Haven't seen a guide yet that doesn't need a pretty good amount of prep! You should go for a fine edge and a gradual slope with no "hump" in the foot. He doesn't really need a pool cue, but if that's what he wants..........
I don't know if you can talk him into it, but on all my musky rods, I do a bumper spiral wrap and on the bottom, I go with size 8 BLAG type guides (ceramic fly type) Forhan wrap, except for maybe the first one. He will appreciate the spiral wrap and light guides when fighting the fish. On my personal musky rods (and for people that I know don't abuse their rods), I use ALL single foot guides with a Forhan wrap. Most musky rods are way overbuilt, IMO. There just isn't very much stress put on the guides

Mike (Southgate, MI)
If I don't want to, I don't have to and nobody can make me (except my wife) cuz I'm RETIRED!!

Rodger that Cliff. I'm a product of the south, live in Atlanta. Muskie fishing is something I'm not familiar with. Since these sticks can also be used as spears for hog hunting, I did'nt think weight was much of a factor but wanted to consult with my northern brethren beforehand. As a lifelong fuji man, I must say I like the Forcast guides thus far. Quality looks first rate. Must also put a plug in here for Robert at FishSticks4U. Great guy to do business with. The source of my materials for this job. Would'nt have known about FishSticks if it was'nt for this website. Thanks again....

Prep your guides no matter what they look like. You can always make them look better. And one crappy foot's worth of wrapping and rewrapping will eat up ALL the time and then some you would have spent prepping the foot in the first place.

No need for underwraps on a Muskie stick. Sure you could. Especially if you're looking for some color contrast or pattern. But it is certainly not necessary.



.........

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