I want to build a casting rod, with a Calstar blank, model 700ML, tip size 7, 7' in length. My Avet reel has 30 # mono topshot with 50# braid. What size guides would be a good fit for this rod? I will be using this for Yellowtail on the half day boats in california. Thanks in advance. Paul Btw, my rear grip is 12" and the forgrip is 10'. I am looking at the Fuji sic guides. I will be using this rod for live bait, and jigs.



Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 09/23/2015 10:11PM by Paul Pollaccia.

Paul,

I've built two Calstars this year on the 270-7 E Glass blanks which are pretty close to your 700ML(which I assume is a Graphiter). On both, I used Fuji BLNAG Alconite guides, which I've used many, many times in the past. They're a great guide for the money and I've had zero problems with them. I have also built a couple in the past with the Fuji SiC's because that was what the customers wanted, but the difference to me is like a Cadillac vs. Chevrolet; both will get you there, but the Cadillac is just a little more sexy. Your choice. Anyway, on both of the 270-7's I built recently, I had a 16, 12, 2-10's, and the rest were 8's. Do be sure to static test your rod; every blank is a little bit unique. One rod needed 5-8's, the other needed 6 to get the line distribution I was looking for. The tips were 8's, of course, but you might want to ask whoever you are getting your parts from if they will fit the tip to the blank for you before sending your stuff. The tip sizes aren't always exact; both of mine needed a 7.5 tube. Good luck!

Dave Sytsma

Thank you Dave for the information.