Ok I have been doing some research and I think I have my new rod configuration but I wanted to run it by the experts to see if I'm close. I'm building a 10' conventional surf rod. I'm using a O'quinn style spiral so 1st guide (from reel) is approx 45 degrees and 4th is at 180. There will be 10 guides + tip. The tip of my blank is 4mm so I will be using a 10-10 tip therefore my guide set-up will be 16-14-12-12-10-10-10-10-10-10-10. Does this look proper? I don't have the reel yet but I'm planning a okuma solterra slr-10lx. Do I need to wait for the reel before deciding on the size of the first guide? This rod will be used for plugging. Any input will be greatly appreciated.



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 06/29/2009 05:05PM by Jeff Bodnar.

You don't need all those different sizes and in fact, you'll get a straighter line path at less weight if you get right on down to the smallest size you plan to use. Skip the 12's and just go to 10's.

Do make sure that those 10's will pass your line and any shock leader you may plan on using.

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Exactly what Tom said. On rods I spiral wrap the 2nd guide is always the final running guide size.

On conventional reels I know that you have to take into consideration the movement of the line for your 1st guide placement. Is this the same for level wind? Does the line guide on the reel actually move when casting ?

Most of the newer bass reels have line guides that do no move. Saltwater models often still do.

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