So I'm getting ready to undertake my first Standup rod build and thought I'd tap into the knowledge of this board. I'm looking to pair the rod with an Avet 50EXW for yellowfin, bluefin, Sharks, and mahi in the Atlantic off of Maryland. We fish wind on leaders with windon swivels so I'm planning to use all rollers. Up until this point I've only built light weight jigging & topwater rods for fishing in the bay, but thought I'd expand my addiction into the Bluewater. Anyways, here is what I'm thinking:

Blank: Calstar 6455 XL
Guides: All roller Alps 50lb.
Wraps: 1 under 2 over (or should I do 2&2 or 1&3?)
Butt: #2 Unibutt (Brand...something cheap...Alps, Stuart, etc. )
Grips: ??

I'd like to wind up around 6'0 overall in length to be able to maneuver around my outboards when needed. Would the Alps guide kits be sufficient or have any Guide size & number of guide recommendations? Also, thoughts on Tip Top size?

Finally, any recommendations for unibutts? I'm trying to build a rod, and eventually a set, I'll keep for a long time. However, that said I'd like to do so as economical as possible. So any recommendations on parts, suppliers, or other ways to keep the cost down would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance for any thoughts and insight!



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 03/08/2016 09:54PM by Andrew Trostle.

MY first thought was Email Karry Batson, Fountain of Knowledge there!

Thanks Barry. I'll have to reach out to Karry!


Anyone else with any insight???

Hey Andrew,

First thing I would do is make SURE the unibutt or reel seat you are using will fit the Avet reel. (ask me how I know)
The outside diameter of the butt/seat will determine if the reel will fit into the hoods correctly while still allowing using the rod clamp. (if that is your preference)
I use Aftco unibutts, reel seats and guides on all offshore builds exclusively. (just my preference).

A size 2 Aftco unibutt is a 30 - 50 lb rated butt.
The Calstar 6455XH is rated at 50 - 100 lbs. so you may want to jump to a size 4 unibutt. (80 lb. class) .
Not sure Calstar makes a model 6455XL.
I'm of the opinion that hypalon is the way to go for heavy rod grips.
Holds up well if you need to use the rail as an assist.
X flock over the hypo is an added cushion and wear barrier.

good luck!