Need input from experienced rod builders

[castingmaniac]

Hello Folks,

I currently choosing the components to a 9 ft/9 wt salt water fly rod. I have the blank and I am choosing the components of the complete rod(reel seat, stripper guides, etc..).
This is not the first rod I have built.
My sources for guide sizing for such a rod do not match.
Choice for guide sizes are as follows

first-#16,12,5,4,3,3,3,3,3
second- #12,10,4,4,3,3,3,3,2,2,2,

The first two sizes on each choice are stripper guides, all the rest represent snake guide sizes. I would like to start with a size 20 stripper guide and then work downward in size toward the tip. Does anyone have any opinion on this, pros, cons, or an alternative perhaps?
All input is welcome!

Tight lines !,

Castingmaniac

[Ray]

I think using a #20 striper to start is too heavy for a 9 weight. I built a 10 weight this winter and used a #20 to start.

It looks like your first option is the best. A #16 will work well. I don't like the second option because of the small striping guides on top.

To help you in your secection, call some rod companies or the place you bought the blank from. I have gotten some great info from Loomis. Just give them the rod weight and length. They will give you the guide size and location from the tip-top.

Don't go too cheap on your guides, once they are on you don't want to change them. Also, when putting your flexcoat on the wraps, mix the hell out of it BY HAND. I mix mine for 5 minutes in a small plastic cup with a tongue depressor. If you don't get a good mix it will never cure.

Good luck,

Ray

[castingmaniac]

I am hearing alot of similar input elsewhere. As far as guides are concerned, I use Hopkins and Holloway guides. I am not sure If I will use snake guides or single foot style. Some time ago, I posted that question on similar forums. I recieved a dead even split. Half were for snake guides and half endorsed the single foot style. H&H single foot guide are raised of the rod blank by a "Leg".

Do you have a preference of guide types? I'd appreciate your input!

Tight Lines!

castingmaniac

[Ray]

I always use single foot guides, mostly because that's just the style I like. Don't listen to any stories about how one type of guide will improve or hamper your casting. The guides past the stripers have such a small impact on the line it's unimaginable.

I use all Pacific Bay hardware. I get it from Hunters Angling Supplies in NH. They always have everything in stock.

Good luck,

Ray