Hi All,

I am building a MHX SJ842-2 spinning rod for my Dad as a gift. I am using Fuji BKLAG-20H, 10H 5.5H then BKTAG-4.5J the rest of the way. This is my first spinning build. I have researched guide placement on this site as well as Anglers Resource. My question is how do you determine the choke point of the rod if you don't know exactly what reel will be used on the rod. I mean all I know at this point is he will use a reel like a Shimano 2500 size or similar.

Thank You,

Chris Tulk

Then I'd get ahold of a 2500 and measure the spool and/or upsweep (depending on the system you're going to use) and use that to go by. Generally if you set up for a larger reel, a smaller one will certainly work fine on that set up. You may give up a bit of performance, but we're not talking night and day. Just a little bit.

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I build for 2500 and 300-series Shimano reels more than any other. You will likely end up with a stripper around 20-inches from the tip of the reel spool axle. From there, measure the distance from the stripper to the top guides and multiply that distance by .45. Place your choke point there.

The group will be a 16H, 8Hm 5.5M for braid to 15# or mono to 6#.

This set up is a ROCKET.

If you are not able to build for a particular reel, this method is recommended by Fuji as a "universal" KR layout procedure. All you really need is a rough idea of reel size and line type to be used. Details are on page 46-47 of our new catalog.

Tom is correct. Building this way will sacrifice a little performance...but not much. Building for a "series" will get you very close.

TAPE AND TEST.

Hi Tom,

I have a couple reels around the house but they don't seem to have the "upswing spool" like the newer reels do?


Hi Jim,

Thanks for the info. I requested a catalogue so I will wait until I get it. Then try the method you suggested. I don't really think my Dad is going to notice any performance hit.

Thank You,

Chris Tulk

In that case you can measure spool diameter and use 27X factor for locating choke guide. Article is in the online library here.

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Hi Tom,

Thanks. I will go take a look at it.

Thank You,

Chris Tulk