Until now I've built mostly spinning and centerpin steelhead rods, however for my next project I'd like to build a 13'6" casting float rod. I'm considering utilizing a spiral wrap on this rod due to it's length and action. My question is, on a moderate action med/light power rod could I get a way with a simple spiral or would a blank such as this require a slower transition?

If I'm better off with the guides on top, then I can go that route as well, it just seems to me that this application might benefit from a spiral configuration.

Any comments or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
~Ray

The Simple Spiral doesn't transition the line - it simply allows it to go where it wants to go naturally. You can keep the line up on top longer, if you wish, although that's not what the line is seeking to do.

My suggestion is to tape up a set each way and try it and see which you prefer.

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

Tom,
thank you for the feedback. Yeah, I was going to play around with it a bit but just wasn't sure on a blank this long & limber, if there was any difference in getting the line underneath the rod. I guess I was hoping to hear from someone who may have experience building a similar rod ...this is a pretty unique build to me so I was just hoping to get pointed in the right direction.

Warmest Regards,
~Ray

I did a 10' rod earlier this year and it has worked well for me. I did the spiral in 3 guides then up in single foot. I use the rod for bottom bouncing and sometimes chucking some hardware for steel here in the great lakes. Go for it!

One rod on the dryer. used 3 guides to make the spiral and the bottom guide all double foots for the spiral 12 8 8 8 then 2 more single ft 8's and then 7's to the top.

Hope this helps you.

Rolly Beenen
Rovic Custom Rods

Awhile back, I built a 13' Talon ITM float rod using Recoil singe foot spinning guides. But armed with an Islander Steelheader, I just couldn't get the hang of casting with a pin. So I contacted Talon, and for $15 plus $8 returned shipping, I sent in the middle section and they fitted a butt section to it and return both to me.

Using two low profile boat guides, I made a spiral wrap and used the existing first 180 which was only 2 1/2" from the middle section's ferrule end. Armed with a Luna 253 baitcaster, I can cast a float into the next zip code. If you want to see pics, send me an email.

Ray,

Feel free to send me the rod. I will build it and fish it for you. Once I've completed testing it (approximately next March), you can have it back.



I think the main concern here is "can you comfortably use one guide at 90 deg. to make the transition from top to bottom." Maybe someone can chime in with any con's to doing it that way? I'm very interested to hear more responses.

GR