I am very new to this and have redone several different rods and am ready to add some rod guides but I need to try and keep my costs down as I'm still kind of in a trial stage at the rebuilding process and have already invested quite a bit at this point. Most of my rods are from about 6' 8" to 12'. Most of the guides I have taken off have been larger 2 foot older chrome guides but are in very poor condition and I would like to replace them with the same. Is there a good multi sized full set that you could recommend that would be a good generalized solution to my needs.? Most of my reels going on are Garcia Mitchell's ranging from the 300's to a 488. I am at a loss. Thank you.

Also I have seen the Microwave carp and surf guides and was hoping to get some feed back on that. I didn't know if that could be a possible solution to my problem. Not sure I'm convinced they would look quite right with the rod set-ups I am working on but I have never seen them in person. Again, thank you.

I guess you need to decide if you want to build period correct rods, or better rods? Today's guides are so much better and lighter, not sure I'd go with Microwave guides out the gate, the Pac Bay Minimas, or AmTack Vortex Air guides would be a step up and economical option. Read all the articles in the library and you'll select an improved guide system over what you had.

American Tackle also offers XSG and XBSG which are simple chromed word guides if they are similar to what you already have. I do agree with Spencer however on updating to something more modern. I wouldn't shy away from microwaves, they are quality guides and work great.

I appreciate it. I haven't really had an opportunity to look at the library much as I've been very busy at work but I will take a look and probably go ahead and order a set or two from your suggestions and I have one in particular I want to throw lures with I was thinking about putting the microwave on if you think they would work well for that. I've kinda gotten alittle anxious and ready to see a completed rod but there are alot of options on the market. P.s. I'm still wrapping them by hand and even though it's quite time consuming I've really enjoyed it! Not had time for a hobby since I was a child. Take care-

I'm going to try a set of the Pacific Bays and a Microwave with the Air Vortex. I think they will function well and look good with my early projects and are still alot cheaper than some I've looked at with mixed reviews. Thank you for the advice.

The MicroWave guides are a great set, either in the 50's or the 30's. If you are willing to use black, the American Tackle Delta guides are also and excelleng budget-friendly choice.

It sounds like you are fishing saltwater. Some of it in the surf. If so you need to get something that will stand up to the salt. I'd suggest something in a 316 stainless frame.

I wouldn't try to match the old guides nor where they were located. For what I think you are trying to do I suggest reading the 27X guide placement article in the library. It is fast, easy, and works well for big spinning reels as long as you understand that on a short rod with a big reel your rod tip might be your choker guide and you might end up with 6 or more reduction guides. Next on the reading list is the two line static guide placement article. Follow those articles and your rods will be much better.

I don't think guides are a wise place to pinch pennies if you are fishing in the salt. The extra buck or two per guide is a lot less than having to replace/re-wrap later on.

Russ in Hollywood, FL.

I have fished for carp and fished the surf for many decades without bothering to match rod guides to target species, or even to weight, bait, or lure/bait type. Where can I find a guide (besides advertising) which reveals what guides are best for which species of fish?