Looking for blank recommendations for a short, 2H fly rod under 9’ for Skagit casting. A 5-weight blank would be best.

Although I know single-hand Spey is a thing, I really want to build it with a bottom handle for C-Spey & Double-Spey casts using both hands.

I’m thinking maybe a fiberglass blank approximately 8’ would fit the bill(?) Maybe older E-glass for in-close loading (I’d like to use a 13.5’ OPST Skagit head with 5’ tips).

Trying to keep this build on the inexpensive end until I know this concept works for me.

TIA

Eric

Hi Eric,
IMO you should go longer in length for more leverage with a 2 handed rod.
Single hand Spey you can haul with the line hand.
If yu're going to use OPST lines you probably aw Ed Ward using his rods 2 handed.
I am pretty sure that Ed was casting a longer rod.
In any case - if you want to stick to 8'0" - I would recommend CTS; Glass (S - not E however) 8'0" #4.
Or, if you decide on Carbon - you want a blank that is easy to load. So, I would go with th CTS Vintage that has an action similar to bamboo.
Or a blank designed to be a Switch rod - good for achor point casting (Spey).
Herb
CTS

R. B. Meiser developed shorter spey rods decades ago, if there is anyone who may have some direct insight for you he would be my choice to talk to.