I just got my first request for a Surf Rod, I mainly build salmon/Steelhead Rods so this is a little out of my wheel house. The request is for a 12-13 Ft Surf spinning rod. It will mainly be used to cast 1-2 oz weights to target red tail surf perch in the west coast. I am currently trying to figure out what would be the optimal length for the rear handle. any advise would be welcomed. Thanks in advance

That's up to the client. Does he have a rod that he uses now? Does one of his friend have a surf rod he likes? If yes then find out the length of that. I build surf rods for the northeast and the rods I use have different lengths for each application. I go as short as 15" up to 24". Shorter ones for me are my 9'-10' lighter lure rods. Mainly plastics and light tins. The longer grips are on my longer rods 10' + that are for throwing heavy plugs. If he plans on standing with the rod pinned between his legs then go for a longer grip. I would mount the reel seat on blank and use tape arbors so it can be adjusted for different butt lenghts and let him test it with his reel mounted. It's custom so let him decide the length. Hope this helps. Best, MH

There are many different adjustable reel seats on the market. Check rod component retailers at right. The adjustable reel seat allows the user to experiment and find the butt length he likes best, and to change the butt length if the rod is used for a different purpose.

24 inches is very typical for many rods in this length