Is there a standard for fly reel seat sizes? What makes a seat "ideal" for a certain wt rod? Som many beautiful seat options with fly seats I am finding it challenging when I research them. Lots of suggestions but I do know as a custom builder we can go outside the box
Thanks as always, Mark

Casting and spinning reel feet are fairly standard in size, regardless of reel size. Fly reels aren't nearly as uniform in this regard. Some attempts have been made in the past couple decades to standardize fly reel foot size but not all have adhered to it. So the main thing to consider is whether or not the seat you choose will accept and hold the reel foot securely. Outside of that, do whatever you want.

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Look at the specs for the seats you are considering; many manufacturers recommend seats based on rod line weight. As the rods get heavier, the seats get more substantial. But there is a lot of overlap and many don't recommend based on rod line weight. I believe you can ask the makers and sellers if the seat you are considering will accept a certain reel you plan to use, too. Most will fit, but if you're spending $50 on a seat, you want to know it will work with your reel.

Tom and Michael, I kind of figured what both of you have stated. I have been going of mfg suggested sizing and have been pretty much spot on. I was just wondering though.

Just watch out for proper ID sizing.
We ran into that with a customer and "Glass" fly rod blanks.
Butt OD called for a much larger reel seat so the insert would fit on the blank.
All metal seats are a lot easier to figure.
These where lighter blanks, 5 wt and under.

Best wishes,
Ron Schneider
Schneider's Rod Shop
Mountain Home, Arkansas
[www.schneidersrods.com]
mtnron40@yahoo.com
870-424-3381

I had the same fun sizing insert reel seats to the large butt Lamiglas Perigee blanks back in the day, still enjoy fishing those sticks over many I have built.