Are there any good books or videos out there that would tell a new rod builder how to determine whick rod blank selection is best. I know that there are hundreds of different blanks on the market and it is hard to choose which one to use. Some bass blanks would work for other types of fishing also. Quite confusing to say the least. Also guides is another topic. So many to choose from. Help please.

Brad ,there really isn't any books or video's what you are asking. Since the different rod manufactures keep coming up with new blanks each year. I would suggest you contacting any one of the suppliers that sponsor this board and ask them what they recommend and why they would recommend it. When calling one of us we will need to know what length rod you are wanting to build, type of fish and fishing technique you will be using for this rod, and the usual line, lure wt.. Also how often are you going to be fishing with this rod, the reason for this question is that if you are only a once a mont or couple of times a mont fisherman I wouldn't put you in one of the higher modulas graphite blanks, but if you did a lot of fishing then I would most likey put you in one. Also when talking with the dealers ask them if they have seen an influx of rods coming back to them that were broken a good distributor will lead you to the right rod blank for your purpose.

Now for guides it all depends on what type of fishing line you will be using and what you want to acheive with the fishing rod that you are wanting to build. Again ask one of the dealers as all of us are knowledable enough to help you with your needs.

I hope I have helped you a little and if you have any other questions feel free to contact me.


Neal Cissel
Neal's Fishing Products

This is where dealing with a good full service rod building supply dealer really, really helps. Somebody like Neal here, or one of the many other sponsors of this site will take the time to suggest good components for your particular application. Never discount the value of personal service that these folks can provide you with.

...........