I did a search first but didnt really find any current info

I have a request from a guy I work with to build him a one piece 8-9’ saltwater spinning rod for throwing plugs up to 3oz off of piers. I am still a greenhorn at rod building but I feel confident I can build him a solid rod with standard wraps which is all he wants. I am a freshwater bass guy and everything I have built so far has been for bass fishing applications.

How about some suggestions on blanks and components for the salt water rod above? Thank you!

What are you targeting?

He said king mackerel and will probably use 40 pound braid.

Possibly a stupid question, but what is a plug and how do you work it?

Plug = Lure

Sounds like rapalas and swimbaits from what he described. Various retrieves and presentations.

Sorry, I meant what type of lure is a plug. Google says it's a regional term, so what I would call a crankbait. If that's the case, you probably want a Moderate or Moderate Fast action. Here are some blanks I found that might work:

Revelation Rainshaodw REVSU80M-DB or REVSU90M-2DB, MHX CB968-MHX, and Phenix MX-UR80MH-B.

If he wants a fast action rod, then you have a ton of options.

MHX MU96MH-MHX, U1087F-MHX, SU965F-MHX, SU1085F-MHX
St. Croix 2M80MHF, 4M86MHF, 4M80MHF, 2SW80HF, 2M86MHF, 3SW80HF
Phenix SMX-82ML-B
Revelation Rainshadow REVM810MH-GBY

On components, it all depends on budget. For inshore, I like the Fuji Corrosion Control Alconite guides. If he wants the best corrosion resistance, then go with the Titanium SiC. If he wants to spend all his money, Titanium Torzite is even better and lighter. I would build a KR concept rod with a KL25H, KL12H, KL5.5M reduction train and then KB to KT running guides of 4.5 if he's not using a leader and 5 if he is.

On the seat, I like Fuji VSS for spinning rods. I would do at least a 16-15 but would probably use a 17 because the butts of those rods are pretty big. Grips are going to be up to the customer, they all work in salt.

There are several Lamiglas blanks that look like they fit the bill too

Ok thank you, will have a look.

I am thinking moderate to moderate fast as he wants to be able to load the rod to make long casts.

Just realized the 9' Rainshadow I listed, REVSU90M-2DB, is a two piece. The 8', REVSU80M-DB, is one piece and looks like it would suit you well. The Phenix looks good too. The MHX is only rated to 2.5 oz, so you would have to talk to someone who has used it.

I don't see any moderate or moderate fast 9' 1 piece blanks. Maybe someone else has a recommendation.

Lamiglas GSB108-1M.

You've gotten advice on the blanks, but not mentioned is a big issue on a rod like this, especially since you, and I, are inexperienced at building and using a rod like this. Consider the issue to be ergonomics. What reel seat size? Should be an 18 IMO for a good solid grip. Length from the reel stem to the butt? Too long and the butt will get tangled in the clothing. I suggest when you decide on a blank and seat, you tape the seat on and have the customer come in and try what you propose. From both the reason mentioned and and the issue of two handed casting. You could even have the guides taped on and using his reel and line, cast his lure. Fore grip? I would think a 3 inch foregrip would be in order.

Got a plan for guide train? I think a large reel will be used, so recommend you take a look at high guides, like the Fuji KLH. See the Anglers REsource catalog for appropriate reduction guides. The new corrosion control guides are not expensive and are supposed to have better than normal corrosion resistance, almost titanium.

Use a SIC tiptop-that's where the most likely grooving will take place.

Sound advice thank you.