I am new to rodbuilding and see alot of talk on the boards regarding "micro guides". Just wanted to post some questions to help me understand some things about "micro guides".

What is the basic concepts and reasoning behind using "micro guides"?

Does it really make that much of a difference especially on rods such as Freshwater Bass rods?

What are the general rules/guidelines of picking out and laying out the correct amount and size of guides on a rod?

What is a prime example of size of guides with the "micro guides" concept for a rod?

Thanks,
TONY

Generally speaking, "micro guides" are any guides that are substantially smaller than what has come to be the norm for use on respective rod types. On most bass casting rods, the normal running guide size has typically been a #8 ring. In more recent years, many have appeared with #6's. Many years ago Berkley introduced their Series One rods with small single foot running guides that at the time, created quite a stir. I'm not sure what size they were, probably 6's which would have been consider a "micro guide" in those days (1980's).

Now we'd be talking about guides in sizes such as #3, 2 and even 1.5 rings. Why use such a small guide? Any time you use a guide that is larger than necessary, you're hanging unecessary weight on the blank that now has to be started and stopped each time you (or the fish) moves the rod. The more mass you have in that outfit, the more energy you'll have to impart in order to start it and the more energy will be required (or wasted) in getting it to stop.

You can indeed save enough weight in guide size reduction to make a difference that can be felt by the human hand. No doubt about it.

The thing I've always said is that you should use the smallest guides that will still perform the required task. You have to be able to pass your line and various connections/knots. You don't want water easily freezing in the rings if you fish often in very cold, sub freezing temperatures. Everything has to be considered before you can decide if putting #2 guides on your next rod is the right thing to do for your particular type of fishing.

..............

Is there actually a ceramic ring inside of a 1.5mm guide? If these are measured outside to outside, how could you even get a ring in there? The opening would be a pin hole. Not doubting, just wondering.

Tom,

Thank you very much for your input. I might be looking to apply to this concept to my next rod, jerkbait rod.

Thanks,
Tony

Rob,

From what I understand, the 1.5mm guides do not have any ring inserts in them. Only the 2mm and up and large enough to fit with a ceramic ring. If I'm wrong somebody will correct me.

...................

Couple more questions...

1. What brands are available and where? SIC rings?

2. If using the NGC on a 6'6" ML spinning rod- What quantity and size guides would generally be used?