When you all build a quality high end rod, what hook keeper do you tend to use? I am building a rod now and using REC titanium running guides and fuji titanium strippers with sic inserts. I also used a nickel silver winding check. I haven't been able to find a titanium or nickel keeper. REC has a titanium keeper but it is a single foot type with a ring. I realize it's not a big deal and perhaps a non issue for most but I like uniformity. Any suggestions? Thanks!

I make my own Norman Miller style as detailed in Rodmaker magazine. I don't know which issue. (Open end hook keeper)

Todd,
Just use a silver colored stainless hook keeper, It will match the nickle winding check.

Ti-chrome keeper:

[www.mudhole.com]

Chrome keeper:

[www.mudhole.com]

Seaguide makes titanium hook keepers.
[rodbuilderswarehouse.com]

If you want to use the OHM symbol shape "U" with feet you can get 20 gauge (.031in) Titanium wire in 5 ft lengths and make your own or you could use this wire to make any shape keeper you like.

The keepers I use I make are from stainless steel weld wire. It takes a little effort but well worth it.
.
Have fun

just use a rec snake guide, they also have single foot hook keepers.

Thanks to everybody for the good information! Great suggestions and ideas!

I am not a fan of hook keepers. Just my take.

I like Alps size 3 single foot fly guides in glossy black finish located at 180 degrees just forward of the front ramp/grip. They just disappear, being so thin and dark, go with any other finishes since they are so unobtrusive. If bent slightly to the srear they even work fairly well as a drop shot keeper. They are also very corrosion resistant as opposed to most keepers that are called "stainless steel," but with no detail on what type of stainless or how corrosion resistant they are. Some are not very resistant.

That location has never given me any troubles with line getting caught on the keeper, and being close to the griip a lure left on it won't get its hooks tangled in rod socks.

The REC keeper is a very good one, too, if looking for a bright finish.

Here’s a picture of an open end hook keeper I make from grade 2 titanium welding wire. Never corrodes, looks good, is easy to make, and costs about 15 cents.
[www.rodbuilding.org]
Norm

Hello All.

The article Norman wrote is in volume 21 - issue 1 - page 14 of RodMaker Magazine and gives good instructions to make your own.



Tight Wraps & Tighter Lines.

Bob,

New Bern, NC.

I'm a fan of the hydra hook keeper for the bass rods I build.
[www.hydrafishing.com]

Mark, I like the the looks of the hydra HK but for a spinning rod. I am building a 3wt fly rod. Thanks to all of you for your input and advice.

Oh you didn’t mention that fact. Changes everything.
Norm