I recently purchased an 8' Phenix Elixir blank FX802-2 (line rating 2-8, Fast, 1/32-3/8 oz, 2 piece) and I am looking for suggestions on the best set-up with higher end parts.

I will mostly be using the rod for shore fishing for trout in the eastern sierras. I know i want a split grip and am thinking about using micro guides.

I will be using a Shimano Stradic CI4+ 1000 reel.

Please let me know what you all think.

Thanks

G'day Cris

I recently built up a St Croix 8ft one piece similiar specs to the blank you have.I used an aero seat plus custom cork,burl and birch grips that i turned up myself.
For the guides i used microwave tidalwaves.It was a split grip as well.I couldnt be happier with it as i use it for wading the flats casting small lures.I use a 2500
size reel.If you are going to use higher end parts see if you can get some custom grips made try Custom Fly Grips on the left if you cant make them yourself.
Hope this helps.

cheers

Ray Balmforth
Figtree
NSW
Australia

Thanks Ray.

Did you use the 9-piece set only or did you add any additional running guides? What tip did you use?

G'day Cris

I used the 9 piece set no need for any additional guides.And used a fuji titsic tip top.If you are fishing freshwater you may not want to go for titanium.

Good luck with your build.

cheers

Ray Balmforth
Figtree
NSW
Australia

Titanium TORZITE K-Series with a size 12 stripper.

Hi Cris,

Consider the MicroWave Line Control System. It is outstanding for casting light weight lures etc. especially with light line. If you want to go higher end then look at the Tidal Wave sets but if it were me I would focus on efficiency and performance which is why MWG’s are ideal on this type of rod. Would probably want to go with the set of 9 and add a running guide or two.

Best Regards,

Darrin Heim
American Tackle Company

Thanks for the input Darrin. I am definitely going to use the tidal wave nanolite. What tip do you recommend and can you provide me with suggested guide spacing for the 8'?

Hi Cris,

Awesome, I think you’ll like them. I don’t have an 8’ suggestion although with my last build I started with a shorter version and moved the guides around to look good when the rod is deflected(and with progressively spacing down the rod) and it casts like a charm. Someone here might have some specific suggestions however I would start by locating the stripping and transition guide and then go from there.

Feel free to call us if you have questions or need any help. (800)516-1750

Best Regards,

Darrin Heim
American Tackle Company

8 foot rod start with 8 - 9 guides Static test Adjust

Bill - willierods.com

G'day Chris

My bad i did add an extra guide so it was 10 all up plus tip top.Just use the spacing for the fiirst 3 guides then do a static test for the rest.

cheers

Ray Balmforth
Figtree
NSW
Australia