I started on this project a while back and did not get to far. I got distracted with some other rods and fishing so now I’m back to it. The blank is a Rainshadow SP842 7’ 6-12lb and will be built as a casting rod. I plan on using 12 to 15 lb braid throwing light plugs and plastics. So as for the guides I don’t want them to big that they take away from the rod but big enough to handle the larger fish it might deal with. Would I start with a 12 double foot and work down to a 7 or 6, or do I want to still stay larger. Also considering 20 lb mono leader knots that might need to run through them. I hope this is not to confusing.

Thanks

Never heard of a correlation between fish species or size and guide sizes. Its more about the power of the rod, and your rod is not that powerful. So no need for beefy guides.

I would build it with the Fuji RV6 then whatever size ring after that that will clear your knots, most likely no smaller than 5's. More likely 5.5's. There is no real advantage in going smaller, IMO. I'd use 3 or 4 KB's then KT's. LG tiptop.

I guess one of my concerns with the guide size is that if the foot could be to small and not have enough thread wraps on it for the amount of pressure that may be exerted on them. And thank you for your feedback and input.

Do a locking wrap if you are concerned about pull out. Micheal’s guide selection is a good one. If you don’t like the looks of the RV6 or its increased price because it only comes in a titanium frame, then use a KW10, followed by a KW 5.5 as a transition guide, followed by KB/KT runners in a size of your choice. I mostly use size 4.5 runners even when fishing for inshore species like reds up to 25#. However, size 5 or 5.5 runners will also work very well. I use an FG knot for my leader to braid connection and it will easily pass through 4.5 runners. The reels I’m using are low profile Shimano Curados 15# and 20# braid to a 20# fluorocarbon leader.
Norm

David, I think I build that blank for seatrout and redfish. For snook I'd want more rod, say the IMMP70MH-TC or even IMMP70H-TC. I Love the titanium-chrome rainshadows. If you want to spend less look at the REVIP70MH-SB. All my snook have been around some type of cover. If you can get them in the open water then move forward with what you have.

Assuming a low profile baitcaster I'd go with Mr. Miller's suggestions on guides.

Russ in Hollywood, FL.

Thanks for the reply’s and input. I picked that blank to throw smaller lures in our small coastal rivers and creeks. I have bigger stronger rod set ups, but trying to cast lighter smaller plugs in close quarters just doesn’t work that well. This build is actually somewhat of an experiment. I should really be building a spinning rod for this, but I love the control of a casting rod in these tight close quarter areas.

Good suggestion from Norm on the locking wrap. If unfamiliar check it out in the library. It is so quick and easy that I doubt it adds 10 seconds to a wrap.