Hi All,

This is my first venture into rod building, and I am planning several rods in the coming future.

I am looking at both fly rods (4 piece for salt) and spinning rods - 2 piece (for soft plastics, lures, poppers)

My question is when ordering a blank online from one of the several sponsors, how do I know what I am ordering is what I want/need? For instance if I want my new fly rod to have a reasonably strong butt section, and a softer top section.

When I order online, I can only choose from slow, medium, fast, xtra fast, or line weight (fly rods).

I have a TFO Axiom #6 which I enjoy and it has plenty of fish fighting grunt, but recently I cast with a Sage ZAXIS #6 flyrod, and this style of rod impressed me. So if I want to order something similar, what would I be asking for?

When I build my #4 fly rod, I intend to use it in the salt chasing fish no bigger than 1 pound. So I would like something to help with the wind, but also have a softer tip for sensitivity and enjoyment when fighting the fish.

As for spinning rods, I presume this would be easier (I hope), as I am happy with a fast action.

I also understand that every angler/rod builder has an opinion on brands they like, etc, and costs can vary greatly.

Therefore what is the best way to find the right blank to suit my needs.

Generally, I would like the flyrods to be about $200 delivered to Australia, and the spinning rods at $100 - including components.

And in saying this, I don't even know if these prices would mean a quality blank or a cheap blank.

P.S. Excuse any wrong terminology I may have used, and the long post!


Thanks,

Richard

Unless you have the CCS numbers on your blank and can compare them to what you're looking at online, the best way to ensure that you get what you want is to pick up the phone and call the dealer and discuss things with him/her.

One of the nice things about the sponsors to the left is the fact that they still do business the old fashioned way - they're happy to discuss your needs and advise you as to the product or products that will fulfill your desires. Take advantage of their expertise - that's what they're there for.

.................

E-mail or call any of the sponsors, the ones I've dealt with have been more than generous in handing out helpful information.

Thanks for the responses.

I do intend to call the sponsors, but I was hoping that there was a way to tell when looking at their online catalogs, rather than call 30 odd blank suppliers.

I suppose it would be easier to ask the forum members on this board, and look at their suggestions on models, etc.

Thanks again,

Richard

Tell us what you are looking for or intending to use these rods for and I'm sure everybody here would be happy to point you in a fairly close to right direction.

Hi Matthew,

I think this will be the best thing for me.

Once Tom's book arrives, and I get my head around a few things, I will ask for some advice on blank models and brands.


Thanks,

Richard