Hi everyone,
just joined the forum, I'm over in the U.K, the rod building scene over here is very small scale, and the range of blanks available is pretty limited. I'm looking to build a light boat rod for "gilling" (using artificial imitation sandeel lures) over inshore reefs, tidal flow is light, maximum of about 1 knot on a spring tide so weights used are 3 or 4 ounce at most. The average size fish we encounter are around the 5lb mark (best fish this year for me was 16lb). Fish are mostly pollack, cod or bass, all put up a good fight but nothing exceptional. I've been checking out the rainshadow blanks either the BP 1024 or 1025, I'm wondering wether the 1024 will be to light for the type of fishing I've described or if the 1025 is to heavy, can anyone give me any advice before I make a decision

I would go with the BP1024, the BP1025 will take a lot of the fun out of catching, you"ll have fun with the other and still handle bigger fish than you mentioned, jush have the drag adjusted right.

Curt

Mr. Gunn,
BP1024 is my suggestion for sure. The 1025 would indeed be overkill, and the 1024 will spank fish in that size range all day long. Shoot us an email if you need suggested builds or guide spacing. Take care.

-The Batson TEAM
BatsonEnterprises.com

Mr Staples,
thanks for the reply, its good to have it "straight from the horses mouth", I was leaning towards the BP1024. The number of guides and spacings would be much appreciated

Mr. Gunn,
Below are our suggested guide sizes and spacing measurements (casting configuration.) Enjoy building, enjoy fishing...

XBMXNLG07 3.75"
XBMXNLG07 7.75"
XBMXNLG07 12.25"
XBMXNLG07 17.25"
XBMXNLG08 23.5"
XBMXNLG08 30"
XBMXNLG10 37"
XBMXNLG10 45"
XBMXNLG12 54"
XBMXNLG16 63.5"

-The Batson TEAM
BatsonEnterprises.com

Mr Staples,
Thanks for the ring schedule. I have found an importer in the u.k who orders from you on a regular basis. He has expressed concern that the BP 1024 might struggle with 3to 4 ounce weight I expect to be using. The rod is rated to cast 2 ounces, so I can,t see that it will have any trouble using a 3 or 4 ounce weight particularly as it is only being "dropped" overboard, could you give me your thoughts on this please

If you're not trying to cast the 3-4 ounces than I agree, there should be no issue. Folks in our area use the BP1024 to mooch (slow trolling) with and attache 5 or more ounce banana weights when necessary to get their gear down in heavy tides etc.

-The Batson TEAM
BatsonEnterprises.com