Folks I'm building my first surf rod and have a question. The blank is a Batson 11'9". How far from the reel seat should I put the stripper guide? The ferrule is about 38 inches from the reel seat. I would really like to put the first guide on the female side of the ferrule but not sure if that is proper or not.

So what say the experts, Can I put the first guide on the female side of the ferrule? if not then how far should the stripper guide be from the reel seat?

Craig,
I always like to have at least one guide on the first section. Really no reason not to with this distance.
Just adjust your guides and guide sizes so that you have a nice lone flow off the reel out to the tip.
Try to adjust your guide size and position, so that when you reel in you have the fine following the full diameter of the first two or three rods. This will give you the maximum casting distance, and minimum guide drag during retrieve.

Good luck
Roger

Have you tried searching the Batson website for guide spacing?. There is considerable information there as well as the opportunity to ask the question.

Fuji and St Croix also have spacing. Plus suppliers to the left Just a starting point.

Also do a search of this site. A lot of info here.

Bill - willierods.com



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 10/24/2009 11:38AM by bill boettcher.

What reel are you using or is going on the rod? It's fine to have the guide on the ferrule sometimes it works out this way. If the reel is larger spool dia. it might be better to place the stripper a bit farther. Test casting is the only way to figure it out and really see what your going to get out of the layout! It's worth the time spent to test becuase if you have ever fished a rod that isn't set up right it's not enjoyable!! You also want to check the balence of the reel and rod!!

which blank is it 1418-1386 ? Spin or Conv.?