Thanks for all the feedback. The Lemkes look nice, but I was hoping for solid nickle silver. I still have a few U24's, which are only .040 bigger than the U25. I may use one of those or maybe go with a small slide band seat. Thanks!
Forum: rodboard

Hello all. I've been out of rodbuilding for a while now, and want to get back into it. I'm a little dismayed at the number of my favorite components that are no longer available though. I have a 6' 10" 1wt blank that I want to build, but am having a hard time finding a reel seat that I like. I wanted a Struble U25, but can't find one anywhere. Does anyone know where I can find one, or maybe
Forum: rodboard

I've built a few rods similar to this for throwing spoons in the surf at Lake Erie. I've found that 6 - 8 weight fly rod blanks work great for throwing the 1/4 to 3/4 ounce spoons that I tend to use. Perhaps an 8 or 9wt would work for you. I've found that 3 and 4 pc spinning blanks are nearly impossible to find.
Forum: rodboard

I assume you are referring to the new RX7+ and RX8+ blanks. While I haven't fished with either yet, I was so impressed with both of them at Charlotte that I had to give my opinion. I spent quite a while casting both models (9' 5wt), and I think they are probably the sweetest casting rods I've ever thrown. Personally, I liked the RX7+ better, but that's going to be a matter of personal preference.
Forum: rodboard

The 7'9" rod should be a good all around rod for that area. The valley section of Cataloochee Creek is pretty good sized water by GSMNP standards, so I really wouldn't want to go any shorter. I generally use an 8' 3/4wt rod there, and it does the job just fine, both in the larger creeks and the small, high altitude streams. Also, while you're there, hop over to the other side of Mount St
Forum: rodboard