I normally build bass rods; but have been asked my a friend to refurbish several of his saltwater rods. One of the rods is a 9'-0" fiberglass spinning rods, (quite old), which currently contains wire frame braced guides, (low frame) sized as follows:

Guide 1: 10mm @ 51/4"
Guide 2: 16mm @ 11 3/8"
Guide 3: 20mm @ 18 3/8"
Guide 4: 25mm @ 26 3/4"
Guide 5: 35mm @ 36"
Guide 6: 40mm @ 47"
Guide 7: 50mm @ 61"

After re-reading through Dale P. Clemens book, (my Bible), "Advanced Custom Rod Building", I realize the benefit of changing the guides to a high frame guide.

I should note this rod is used on party boats and is not used for surf fishing. I have asked the friend to measure the spool diameter on the reel he uses on this rod; however he has not gotten back to me with the measurement. I assume it is a large saltwater spinning reel, as he uses the rod for Yellowtail, White Sea Bass, etc. This would require line test of at least 15 to 20 lb test, if not larger.

My question is can anyone of you builders more familiar with saltwater spinning rods than myself give me some rough recommendation for guide sizes and guide type to be used on this rod?

I would prefer not to buy a bunch of guides for a saltwater spinning rod for testing when I probably will not do many more saltwater rods.

You assistance is sincerely appreciated.

Don Campbell
don@sensorfishingrods.com

If he's been using wire guides then regular Hardloy guides would be fine. Now on a 9' spinner depending on the reel spool size I would look for a Fuji 25 HV if not a 30SV for the first guide just go down from there. like this...25HV ,20Hv, 16SV, 12sv,10mn,8,mn,8mn +tip. Build it COF and it should be fine. He's not looking to cast a mile off a party boat. BTW I didn't think party boats allowed rods that long!!

John,

Thank you for your input. It is appreciated. You feel that a 25Hv or 30HV is large enough for the rod?

I don't have a clue when it comes to saltwater spinning rods. I don't know about the party boat limitation on rod lengths. We are located in So. Cal and he normally goes out of San Diego on over-night trips. Probably not what would be referred to as a "party boat"!

Thanks again,

Don Campbell
don@sensorfishingrods.com

I doubt there is a limit on length. If he is using a newer reel with braid a size 30 high frame guide should do. He may want a double foot guide and those aren't as high so a 40 might be needed. If he is using an old school reel he might need a Much larger guide. Some of the surf rods used ones as big as 70's.

Russ in Hollywood, FL.