I have done some research about placing the guide around the blank in the spiral/ acid method. I understand the reason for doing it in large offshore and boat rods, but my question is this.
With a lighter inshore saltwater or bass rod, does moving the guides the the inside of the spine really give that much of an advantage. Does it detract from casting? I am looking to make my first rod with this type of guide placement for a bass fishing friend and want to make sure it will be right for him before I do it.
If you have any experience with this method ot insight please let me know.
Thank you

You should not encounter any problems whatsoever, John. I just posted a picture where I am using an 8 foot steelhead rod spiral wrapped for fishing the surf. When the surf is muddy I use dead shrimp for bait and cast using a two ounce sinker. I have no problems with these spiral wrapped rods casting or fighting a fish in the surf. I have also started spiral wrapping my inshore popping rods.

It has nothing to do with the spine - the spine has no effect on rod stability. On the other hand, the spiral wrap makes a casting rod inherently stable. There is really no reason not to spiral wrap, unless you or your customer just don't care for how it looks.

You will not experience any practical difference in casting distance between a regular casting rod and one spiral wrapped.

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