Good Morning...
I'm getting ready to do my first musky rod. I'm building on a Rainshadow IMU875 and will use it for throwing bucktails and topwater baits. There is tons of info on how to do spiral wraps, but I would appreciate any insight on guide sizes. Right now I'm planning a DF size 12 butt guide, a BF size 8 bumper and SF size 6's on the 180. I use micro braid line...Your thoughts and advice would be much appreciated

I'd say you're off to a good start. Assuming you're using the number 7 tip top you may consider using smaller running guides to reduce weight. (Also assuming the smaller guides will allow knots to pass through them.)

Thanks,
Chad Huderle

Huderle Custom Rods
Prior Lake, MN

If you like high profile round reels: I start with a DF 10mm, if you use low profile reels: I go to an DF 8mm as stripping guides. All the rest are SF 6mm flys.

DR

Make sure your butt guide is tall enough to keep your braid from sawing through your hand when you grip the fore grip with a good fish on.

Thinking of putting a Shimano Cardiff 300 on the rod. I have a Calcutta that I was going to use to load up the rod and tweak. Should I get the Cardiff now? Thanks for the advice on the height. I have big hands and those things hit like a freight train.

10, 8, 8, 8, 6, 6, 6, 6, 7 tip top. Or somewhere about there.