Hi everyone. I am still pretty new to rodbuilding. I have built about 12 or so rods and I now have a new addiction!

I just got a 9' fast action rod that I'm going to build for bucktailing the inlets and cobia fishing (spinning reel) I have a bunch of guides from size 40 down to 8. Is size 40 a good choice for the stripper guide or should I go up one size? Is there an ideal distance from the tip where the stripper guide should be? The reel I will use is a Shimano Sustain 8000.

THANKS!

Read the online article here on the New Guide Concept. It's in the online library and I think you'll find it very helpful. It will size and locate the guides for you.

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The Sustain 8000 has a 60mm spool OD, a Fuji #40 has a 30mm ID.

So ... a #40 will be a perfect size IF you are using mono, flouro or hybrid line. However, if you are using braided line you can go considerably smaller than a 40 and still have the height needed.

The #8 running guides will probably be your best choice, if you are using braid ... they are the smallest I would be comfortable with properly passing your leader knots. IF you are going to be using mono, flouro or hybrid line then you could easily move to #6 guides with no issue.

I would encourage you to use DF guides on a cobia rod ... don't worry about the weight, you are using a 8000 reel and a 9' rod - you won't feel the difference, but you WILL appreciate the difference in strength.

Lots of great info in the Library... THANKS.

Jim, excuse my ignorance but when you say DF guides I assume that that means double footed right?? If so I agree with you 100 percent. The extra weight will not be an issue. I want a strong rod that will stand up to some fish abuse.

THANKS

I would use high frame dbl foot guides for the butt and transition guides and low frame casting dbl foot guides for the choker and running guides.

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have you looked at the fuji lowriders; alot of guys are starting to use them on spinning rods over here in oz for cobes and tuna etc.