Hi all,

I have been asked by a relative to build a rod for atlantic salmon and, since I don't fish for salmon myself (yet), I was wondering what those of you who do use. He has mentioned that he wouldn't mind a 7 wt. since he may also be using the rod to throw large streamers for trout. I realize fishing skill plays a large part in this, but would a 7 wt. work or should I suggest an 8 wt.? Blank suggestions welcome.

Thanks for any advice.

Kevin

So a lot of this depends on the water they will be fishing. I live in the PNW and fish for Salmon and Steelhead. Depending on the river a 7 weight is fine, but in other rivers that are high gradient, a 7wt is a woefully underpowered stick... Also the *size* of the water will affect both the choice of action and rod length. If they are a good caster, then going with a 10 footer is nice as it will allow them to mend better for swinging files. If they stink at casting, all the 10 footer will do is magnify their casting flaws and probably tire them out faster.

As far as I know, a 7 or 8 weight for Atlantic salmon will be fine, but I'd err on the side of not beating up the fish and get an 8wt. This should lend itself to fishing for bass and some stripers also.

As for specific blanks I'd look either at the Dan Craft FT series if they are fast action guys, or perhaps at the RX7+ if they have a more relaxed stroke.

Good luck and have fun building the rod!

You might mention what streams you will be fishing.My experience has been in the Canadian Maritimes.I fish mostly nine foot rods that can handle #8 and #9 lines.I do carry 8'6"ers and 9'6" ers.Weather can be a factor so you might be faced with heavy winds.Anyhow,good luck.A magnificent fish.
Stu

Give Dan a call. Nice guy and he will advise you on just the right blank

Thanks for the replies. Unfortunately, I don't know what rivers he is going to fish so I may err on the side of caution and go with an 8wt. I'll probably give DC a call today.