I am in the process of making several graphite fly rods whose actions will duplicate my favorite bamboo rods. Does anyone know any makers out there with quality, slow action blanks that are relatively modestly priced?

I think what you're looking for are slow speed blanks, not slow actions. Action is independent of the material used to make the blank.

What you're going to have to do is look for lower modulus graphite blanks. Heavier for the stiffness involved. They'll feel a little more like your bamboo, but even then not entirely the same.

You might want to take a look at the Hexagraph solid graphite rod blanks.

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It is not graphite, but Lamiglas makes a series of fiberglass blanks that are very slow (speed, action, whaterver. they bend way down in the butt). I built a 6 piece, 8', 5 wt. that is very nice.



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 01/20/2009 02:13PM by Bill Moschler.

Jay -
As Bill posted above Lamiglas "Spring Creek" model might fit what you're looking for. MudHole has them and Todd Vivian (formerly with LamiGlas) should be able to help you in your choice.

Thanks for your responses. I'll take a look at the lamiglass blanks.

Google up hexagraph rods and see their blanks, closest thing to bamboo and also looks like it. Very good blanks, I have built on 2 of them.

Hexagraph, would be my choice. If you care to spend the $.

Check them out.

Paul.

I fish therefore I am.
www.hookeduprods.com

Once you buy the blank, you may find the action may not be slow enough for you. If this is true, you can put a heavier coat of CP and finish on the guide wraps - maybe even a double wrap - (especially towards the tip) to slow that action even more. Good luck.

That will slow the speed, not the action. But I think that's what he's after anyway.

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