I have a 6' 6" 1 piece bass rod rated 1/4-1 oz 10-20 lb line. What guides do I get? I know a lot of you recommended single footed for everything but the stripper since I'm a beginner.

I'm ready to order some and get started with my first rod. I don't care about brand, style, black or silver would be fine, as long as it's a decent set of guides hopefully for less than $15 cause the rod isn't worth 20 bucks.

I'll be fishing live bait in saltwater for flounder with a 5600 Abu on it, 12 lb mono.

It can be a daunting decision the first time around. If practice is the main goal a double foot guide offers twice as much. Consider this, when going to the store to buy a rod do you ever reject one because of the guides it comes with?

Today there are many choices. Fuji hardaloy has long been considered a solid budget choice and are in your price range. Other brands offer a bit better value but fuji often requires less prep.

Many here will suggest going the micro route. They are right but I think they could be difficult for a first timer. You don't need a very big butt guide, around 12 should do. A 6 for your smallest guide is a reasonable compromise between weight and something easy to handle. Spending a little more for a better tip is smart IMHO.

I think your real chance to advance your knowledge is static testing. It gives you a chance to see what happens as you move guides around and builds confidence in your ability to properly place them. Do be brave enough to trust what your testing and the blank tells you. Don't be surprised if you end up with your guides in different spots than the factory built rod.

From personal experience.....shipping may be more than the guides and it stinks when static testing tells you you have to get one or two extra guides. Best to make a small investment and buy a few different sets IMHO. Get some of the normal and some of the concept styles for example and better to buy ones for a longer rods. I always end up using more of the smaller guides:)

Russ in Hollywood, FL.