I'm getting ready to order the guides for my DanCraft FT 9ft 4wt. I've search a bunch on the forums to get some information on guide sizing. Based on what I've found this is what I've come up with:

1- #10 Stripper
2- Size 3 Single foot wire guide
7- Size 1 Single foot wire guide
1- Standard tip top

I understand from what I've read that some people go straight to the running guide after the stripper, but I'd like a small step down just only for aesthetic purposes (for myself). Is this a reasonable guide size setup? If I were to add a taming stripper, would I use a #8 stripper?

Jon

That looks reasonable......I usually use just just one guide as a "taming guide", if I use them at all.. For 6wts or less I use a wire or SF ceramic guide for this. I agree it looks better, although most of my recent builds I haven't used one at all. I would just use one size 3 wire guide if I did. I think a size 8 cermaic would be too big as a taming guide.

I personally like to have my guide size determined by the line between the reel and the location of my first running guide. Having an oversized guide can cause the weight to be unevenly distributed when the rod is under load. The guides are part of your drag system and keeping the friction evenly distributed, helps keep it "smooth".

Just my opinion.

You don't need 2 #3's, just use 1 of those and add 1 more size #1. This will give you a straighter line path.

If wanted to try a taming guide, yes, use a #8. Remember that the taming guide is an addition rather than part of the regular spacing, so you can always add it in later.

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Thanks guys! Appreciate it a lot