What is the best procedure when putting an underwrap on a off shore rod? Should the under wrap be epoxies before wrapping the guides or should it all be finished with the epoxy at the same time? I am double wrapping then guides as well. Is double wrapping the guides necessary? this is my first offshore rod so I am kind of flying blind.

Thin coat of epoxy on the underwrap. Then overwrap and finish over all. I use two coats over the top wrap for heavy offshore or standup rods.

Fred,
You will find varying opinions on whether an underwrap or a double overwrap is necessary or not; none are wrong and it boils-down to personal preference after examining the pros and cons. There are those who underwrap to help cushion or isolate the guide foot from nicking the blank and/or to help stabilize the feet. Others simply like the look or their customers expect the look. An underwrap obviously requires more work and adds weight. As for double overwraps, unless seeking truly monstrous tuna or such, a single overwrap, especially considering a double-foot guide, is extremely strong. The accumulative strength of each wrapped thread when multiplied by, say, 50 rotations can produce well over 100lb of holding force, 2X for a double foot guide. A double overwrap adds security and protection and is certainly not a bad thing other than the additional work and weight. Weight is certainly not as big of a concern with an offshore rod as it is for an ultralight trout rod.
I have adopted underwrapping rods over 30lb because I believe in the benefit of isolating/stabilizing the guide feet. I have only double overwrapped one rod and that was due to the visual effect.
If you decide to underwrap, most including myself will suggest using size A thread and apply a thin coat of finish and allow to cure for 24 hours. This will produce a much more stable base which will eliminate the overwrap of size D digging into or trying to follow the threads of the underwrap.
I am interested in what the veterans have to say.

Mark Talmo
FISHING IS NOT AN ESCAPE FROM LIFE BUT RATHER A DEEPER IMMERSION INTO IT!!! BUILDING YOUR OWN SIMPLY ENHANCES THE EXPERIENCE.

Fred,

Both Mike and Mark are correct. Personally, I always use an underwrap on offshore rods; thread size is determined by what color my customer wants and what thread size I happen to have that color in but I check with them first. Size A does look a little cleaner in my opinion. The underwrap I believe does add a degree of cushioning. I then apply a thin coat of epoxy, whether I've had to use CP for a desired color on the underwrap or not to allow for a smooth finish for the overwrap. I'll let the epoxy cure for about 48 hrs. even though it's dry to the touch. The extra curing time seems to let it harden up a little more and allows for easier thread manipulation with the overwrap.

I always use two coats on the overwraps. FlexCoat Lite is my epoxy of choice and the two thin coats rather than one thick coat allows for removing small defects like dust, fuzzies, or missed areas in the first coat if necessary. The only time I use two overwraps is on roller guides on heavy saltwater rods. I don't know if it's needed, but it's peace of mind.

I almost never underwrap freshwater rods. I don't think the need for cushioning is there, and it does add weight. To me, the significance of added weight from an underwrap on a heavy stand up rod is insignificant.

Dave Sytsma