In follow up to an earlier post about optimum blanks for a 2 weight fly rod, 6 to 7 feet in length, I have turned my research to finding a light weight handle and reel seat option to build this rod. I am looking to either purchase, or if need be, fabricate a cork handle and reel seat that is more like the style found on very light 2 weight Orvis rods in the Helios or Trout Bum series. I am having trouble finding such items. What vendors make such components and where can I purchase them? I want this rod to be ultra-light in weight and very sensitive. Is it best to build a custom handle from cork rings? I am willing to consider a smaller uplocking reel seat with a wood insert or one with sliding rings. I just haven't been able find one. Your ideas and experience is much appreciated!



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 01/12/2010 03:16AM by Peter Chan.

REC has many styles that would work for you and they are very attractive. They are a sponsor to the left. They have an all cork clide band seat that would very light weight. Combine with a short 6.5" cigar shaped handle and I don't think you could go wrong.

Keep in mind that your hand will be the same size regardless of the size or weight of the rod. You also have to accommodate a certain size reel foot in whatever reel seat you choose. Don't make the mistake of buying or crafting a diminutive seat and grip in order to make things aesthetically pleasing to your eye, only to find out that you've given up the functional end of things.

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

If you really want to go super light look into foam core-carbon skinned grip. It may not be acceptable to you aesthetically but it produces stunningly light grips.

I would add that building a light rod is a "cumulative" process. It's an overall approach. For instance, using single foot guides, instead of traditional snakes will cut the number of thread wraps (and corresponding finish) in half. Consider using no CP, and finish the wraps with 3 coats of PermaGloss. Don't put on any decorative wraps. Drop the winding check. You can also split the reel seat, eliminating the weight of the insert. Get a 2 piece blank, instead of a 3 or 4 piece (ferrules definitely add some weight). Buy a blank with no finish on it...
Regarding the handle/seat area, weight added or subtracted here has the least effect on the rod, as opposed to, say, anything you might do to the tip section.
These are the kinds of things that I consider when I'm thinking about building a light rod.

I have built several lightweight (1-3 wt) rods using this handle from Netcraft. It is a one peice cork handle (split about 2" from butt), with slip rings.
[www.jannsnetcraft.com]

I replace the rings with accessory rings from places like Zany's.

I have copied it for people who want a "fancier" handle or a better grade of cork. The cork is not bad at all(as good as many of the "flor" rings you can get). The only thing I don't really like is it has a Al end cap that is not too neat. I replace it with one turned from wood.

Dick,

What is Zany?
Your email is hidden.

Try Anglers Workshop one of the sponsors on the left. They carry what your looking for.

I am probably spelling it wrong. It is a store that is setup for young adults and teenagers that sells different kinds of accessory jewelery, gag gifts, costumes and the likes. Spencers is a similar store. Look for things like thumb rings or big sized finger rings. You can find all sorts of cool designs to use. Thanks for telling me my e-mail was hidden it is no longer.

As mentioned by Paul, the REC PLRN is what you are looking for:
[www.reelseats.com]

But also check out the PLRW. It is not much heavier and adds some nice burl wood to the equation:
[www.reelseats.com]

You might also consider the new Struble D-27 downlocking slide band seat. One of the prettiest on the market today:
[www.strublemfg.com]


Walt



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 01/13/2010 01:17AM by Walt Natzke.