I have a Batson Rx4 BP1264f I'd like to use as a Surf Spin. It's a 10'6", rated 1/2-2 oz , 10-20 lb. It will probably be matched with a 4000 series reel. Has anyone used a downrigger blank to make a spinning surf rod, I'm thinking 20-24 inch butt, kskss reel seat, carbon fiber split grip, SIC guides. Any experinces on trying a build like this??
Thanks in advance!

Good question for James Taylor.

the blank doesn't know that it is a trolling rod or a surf rod if it fits your need build it and try it no reason it wouldn't work as long you don't get silly and try tossing heavier weight

The best day to be alive is always tomorrow !!
Think out side the box when all else fails !!!
Wi.

As long as you stick to casting lightweight artificials it should be ok. If you fish bait your 2oz. rod will handle a 1 1/2 oz.sinker. I end up usually with a minimum 4 oz. sputnik (pronged) sinker to hold bottom when I fish bait from an open ocean beach. You may be undergunned.

What are you planning on throwing and targeting? Those blanks are rated for fishing stinkers off a boat. The rating is accurate for that but you're not going to be able to cast anywhere near 2oz with any power. I built one for the surf on a BP1265f. It's a fun rod for light lures and smaller fish if that's your plan.

I'm building it for tossing 3/4 - 1.5 oz spoons and plugs at the mouth of tribs for Lake Ontario Shore Run Spring Browns. Its as close to surf fishing as we get in the Great Lakes.

I looked at the 1265f also Brian, I went for the 1264f because sometimes I go light leader, so I chose the 1264f over the slightly heavier action 1265f. How did your build go? I've worked out a basic formula for the blank but would be very interested in how you did your build. I was gonna run Fugi SIC dbl ft guides to the choke point and single foot SIC to a 8/10 tip. The handle length/ reel seat ctr. is my only unknown yet, I'm thinking somewhere between 20-26 inches off butt.buttons

I looked at the 1265f also Brian, I went for the 1264f because sometimes I go light leader, so I chose the 1264f over the slightly heavier action 1265f. How did your build go? I've worked out a basic formula for the blank but would be very interested in how you did your build. I was gonna run Fugi SIC dbl ft guides to the choke point and single foot SIC to a 8/10 tip. The handle length/ reel seat ctr. is my only unknown yet, I'm thinking somewhere between 20-26 inches off butt.buttons

Sounds fun, that blank should work well I would think. I used Fuji kl-h guides 25,12,8m,7l, size 5 runners. I don't think double foot guides are necessary and I'd also recommend smaller running guides if you aren't dealing with freezing temps. The blank is so light any added weight is pretty noticeable. Handle length and style is largely personal preference. My handle is 16 or 17 inches, can't remember. I'll go 21-24" on surf rods where you're holding the butt between your legs while working plugs. With this rod I'm throwing small lures and prefer to hold the rod tucked under an arm. With a longer butt it just seems to get in the way.

What are the distinguishing characteristics of a "surf rod"?

Phil Ewanicki Wrote:
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> What are the distinguishing characteristics of a
> "surf rod"?


Depends who you're asking and where in the world you're asking it.

Brian: Good call. It helps when information seekers provide necessary information, including where the rod will be used, how it will be used, and what the target species are.