I know this question has probably been asked before but I would like a fresh take on it. What harm would come from building a spinning rod with a blank designated as a casting blank. I know it can be done, that is what defines this group as custom rod builders but what kind of outcome would there be?? What differences are between the two blanks? reason for the question is I might have an opportunity to purchase a high quality casting blank at a low cost and my target (In-Laws) wants a spinning rod.
Just curious.
Mark Schulte

I skip spoons and soft plastic baits under docks and mangroves to catch Snook . I use a spinning rod to do this because a baitcaster would bird nest as soon as the lure started skipping across the water, but a baitcasting rod has the backbone to pull a snook out of the structure so for this type of fishing I build my spinning rod using a casting blank and it works perfectly. I don't know what type of fishing your In-law does be careful it may not be the action he or she is used to.

Capt. Bill Hobbs ,
You made a valid point about what type of fishing I need the blank for. they fish for bass, Arizona , and need a rod for fishing rubber worms so I figured a little backbone would be good. I know that is what I like. They requested a 6 footer medium/ med heavy. the blank I am looking at is 6 ' fast action medium power. that is what I would use but they have just been into bass fishing for the last three years and are still learning the ropes so they kind of left it up to me.
Thanks again,
Mark Schulte

Mark,

There is really no such thing as a "casting" or "spinning" blank. They are just blanks. The manufacturers list them in certain catagories in an effort to help builders select what they think will be an appropriate model for general casting or spinning chores. In many cases, the exact same blank is listed in both catagories, although under different model numbers.

Just select the blank you need per the action, power and length requirements you have and all will be well. The blank has no idea what you are using it for.

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You may use spinning or casting rod blanks for whatever you wish. It is mostly just a category issue. Although you will find that casting rod blanks will usually have a smaller OD at the butt, than the same length and power number does in the spinning model.

thanks for the information. I thought that would be the case but just wanted some expert opinions.
Mark Schulte

I'm with Tom on the subject of spinning vs casting blanks. when I order a blank I look at the specs. Most of the rods that I build are the so called "popping rods" of the Texas Gulf Coast. They were labeled popping rods because we used to use them with popping corks or a cork that makes a popping sound when jerked to immitate the sound a shrimp makes when it is trying to escape a fish. Most of the "popping rods" are now used with different lures as well as live bait. It all depends on the action and power a person wants in a rod and hang the spinning vs casting label. Most of my personal rods are casting rods made up on spinning blanks.