I want to build a conventional nine foot fishing rod for tossing clams, herring, and blood worms from ajetty for stripers. The lead weights would range between 2 and 5 ounces with three being the usual weight(in a pinch,I might go as low as one) and I would be using 20 - 25 pound test mono.

I have been using a 7 1/2 convential rod based on the Sabre live bait E Glass coast buster blank. I like the rod but I need something a little longer and stiffer so that I can better manuver fish around boulders. I think a 9 foot rod would be ideal. The rod has to be durable since it is likely to get smacked on the rocks on occasion.

I've read some good things about the rainshadow blanks and I really like the prices that I've seen. Would their composite blanks (SW1088 or SW1089) fit the bill? Also, would you recommend one model (SW1088 or 1089) over the other for jetty use?

Another possiblity might be the Calstar GF800L but I can almost buy the both rainshadow blanks for the price of the Calstar.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

Tom (aka Duckwump).

Tom,
I can't personally say from Jetty fishing experience about your consideration with the Rainshadow blanks, but as for construction and quality and price of these you should be very pleased. It's a real tossup as to which power, but depending on the reel I am best guessing the 1088 model would suit your particular fishing situation.

We've sold the E Glass saltwater series from Rainsadow and with a high satisfaction rate. The composites also are a nice alternative for strenght and sensitivity. Batson has some darn nice blanks for this series. I'd be glad to also fill you in with our price or further information and specs. about this blank or other Rainshadow/Forecast blanks.

Rich
Richard's Rod & Reel Service

I would opt for the 1089 instead of the 1088. I have tied a 1088 that will make a great eel rod or 2-3 oz plug rod for the beach. For jetty fishing and bottom I would go with the 1089 or the 10ft SW1209 is a pretty nice blank! Get it in the Matte Clear finish!
You will be very happy with the preformance of whatever Rainshadow you get.

Thanks Bill and Rich for the advice. I am leaning towards the SW1089.

Tom