I have a 7' IM-6 flex-tip (one piece) spinning rod blank. I need help in spacing 5 guides, plus the tip to this rod. Many years ago I was purchased this rod and the guides to use a starter project. I have a (2pc) 9' -- 6-7 wt fly rod I want to build when I get better at wrapping and finishing. Do I need more than 5 guides?
If I use 5 or 6 guides what would be the best spacing? Thank You,, Robert Hubbard

Robert,
It's all explained in the library article for static distribution guide spacing. Not much help we can give without more info on thr rod blank, reel used, line etc. % guides sounds about 2 or 3 not enough.

Ideally, the New Guide Concept Primer in the library would be your best bet. But you'd have to use different guides than what you have now.

You can make what you have work. It won't be the optimum set up but would work at least as well as most factory rods. If you can supply the reel and approximate spool diameter and line to be used, we can probably spit out something that would at least be good enough to work decently. I would want an absolute minimum of 6 if not 7 guides on that blank, however.

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For a typical spinning rod, you generally want 7 guides for optimum spacing.

Just flex the tip - put the first guide at the biggest bend, divide the distance to the tip and put another one 1/2 way to the tip. Then, space back as the blank dictates to carry the line.

Take care
Roger