Hola,

I want to build a light casting rod, but I'm out of my fly fishing league. I have a beautiful Shimano Calcutta reel rated for 5-8 lb. line, and I want to match it to a 6'6" blank witht the same characteristics. So far I've been impressed with Graphite USA's C661DHX 6'6" fast action rated for 4 - 10 line and 1/16 - 5/16 weight lures. Have I picked a winner, or do you have another recommendation? How are the Lamiglas Perigee casting blanks?

Thanks for your input,

Jim

If it were me, I'd look at the St. Croix SCVs and SCIIIs. I've not used the GUSAs or Lamis mentioned; I'm just really fond of the St. Croixs. For that light weight rating, I'd look at both casting and spinning blanks. One blank listed as a casting blank that I would consider is the 3C69MLXF. It's phenomenal for small finesse worms, drop shotting, and other bottom-bouncing applications. If you're looking at using this rod for cranking or small SBs, I'd think about the 3C66MM. I think it would be perfect for that reel. For an all-around "utility" rod, I'd consider a 3S66MLF built into a casting rod.

Not too long ago, someone built a very light baitcasting rod like you're describing, and he put the photo on the photo page. It looked really cool. Unfortunately, I don't remember his name. But, you might wander back through the archives and see if you find it.

The Perigee casting blanks are long gone unless your lucky. They used the best graphite for the job on those blanks so it was up to the application intended on what graphite you received.
I've built and use many GUSA DHX blanks and they are very tough, straight, and usually just a bit heavier in weight than a comparable high end blank for the same line weight rating. It's the dual helix construction that gives them this trait.
The CTS blanks that Lamar Fishing has is of a single helix construction that is lighter. I just received a 7 ft blank from Andy that just might fit your application, he had a 6 1/2 model there also. I'd say it was good from 1/8 - 3/16 oz to 1/2 oz. Just received the 7 ft model and it is superb.

It takes a better man than me to throw 1/8 and especially 1/16 oz lures with casting gear, so I agree with the post above to consider spinning also. I also agree about the St. Croix SCIII and SCV blanks (I'd skip the SCIVs). I'll add that for a light casting rod you can get a nominal St. Croix "spinning" blank and build it as a casting rod, I've done it and been happy with the result.

The 6 ft 6 in CTS would be very close to the Shikari SHX PSJ662, I'd think in all ways.

Rainshadow ISB780. I think this series (and the IC) are the best value you can get these days.