I was handed a box of old reels the other day and naturally, I want to build some rods for some of them. I particularly think this little Pflueger Rocket looks pretty cool, not even sure if it has been used, but I am not sure what I want to do with it. It has no drag, just a leather thumb brake. I can’t imagine many applications, around my area, where no drag would be a desirable feature.

Does anyone have any ideas as to what kind of rod/ application it might have traditionally been paired with? Maybe recommend a blank or two I should look at? Whatever I do with it I want to keep in mind, and have at least some nod toward, its history.

A True Temper or Heddon rod. Not sure of that reels age but early to mid 1950's was about the time fiberglass rods started to take over. True Temper used to be American hoe. The square steel ones were more common but the tubular ones were nicer IIRC. Those old knuckle buster reels were a pain to cast but they would fish bait just fine today. You just have to get used to using your thumb as a drag. Best to use Dacron line.

Russ in Hollywood, FL.

if it is new or close to being new.
It's antique value, may be enough that you would not want to diminish it from use.
Might be worth doing some research to find out

Anything from bass to steelhead will work, Seelker E, or S glass blanks would be a good start, they have the best variety. MHX has some S glass blanks in the bass, light inshore spectrum.

Thank you!

I don’t think any of the reels are really worth much. That rocket, because it is in such good condition with a box and instructions might fetch $50 from what I could tell. With most things, including these old reels, I am inclined to save or conserve historic items. I think I want to either find an old rod or make a retro-looking rod, use it on a couple of sunny days and hang it on a wall somewhere. One of those old Heddon or True Temper rods would be great if I come across one.

Not much bass fishing around here, but I could see it making a nice steelhead set up…

I need to get more familiar with Seeker, and after reading all the positive comments regarding MHX, Im starting to come around to the idea of giving them another chance.

Thanks again for all the help gents!

The Seeker FSH832B, is real close to the Fenglas FS83C, easily the #1 rated fiberglass steelhead rod of all time, and one of the all time most popular, if not the most popular, blanks Fenwick ever sold, as it did many things so well on other species and techniques.
Fantastic drift rod, same pulling plugs.

Thank you Spencer. I think I might want to get a few of those blanks! I have no idea why I was so ignorant about Seeker. I didn’t even realize they were US made (knowing where my products come from is very important to me). I think I had it in my head that they were more of a saltwater manufacturer and kind of just dismissed them.

Since I have started to really troll through this site and gradually doling out my silly questions, my learning curve has greatly accelerated. I really do appreciate those of you who share your time and knowledge on this site. It is immensely helpful and appreciated!