What is a good blank for a slide bait rod--which is better glass or graphite--and what guides would be best?

Lamiglas still builds the slide bait rods that were popular in the 80's.
At the time they were known as an L6M. Today the designator is SB 160 6M.

Here's the link that lists their specifications:

[www.lamiglas.com]

They work very well with a wide Penn 4/0 and 60# mono.

Lamiglas has recently listed another blank/rod that should work quire well. It is available in one or two piece. And finished or blank.

[www.lamiglas.com]

Additionally, the Lamiglas GSB 156 2XH Woven (?) should be fine. It is carried by Mudhole.

Don

Don Becker

"what guides would be best?"

Some time ago the "wide frame boat rod guides" were favored. This was the XBG series. Sizes 24 down to 16.
The boat guides were used to pass the large knots that ere required.

At a later date, people moved to Hilo (or helical) guides. These are similar to recoil guides, but much heavier. The problem with these guides is that they are prone to grooving after a good run by a fish.

Recently, American Tackle started building some ring lock frame guides. They have a heavy titanium frame and they may prove to be a suitable alternative.

Don

Don Becker

Hi Christopher,

Don is correct, American Tackle does have some new guides that are ideal for Ulua rods. They are our new Ringlock "Virtus" guides. Although new, there are many Ulua rods with them already in HI with excellent results. They are extremely durable and the titanium frame reduces weight and adds flexibilty like no other boat guide can. Here are some of their highlights.

- Frames comprised of solid titanium alloy or SS316 material
- Titanium frames are 100% corrosion proof
- Titanium frames are up to 60% lighter then stainless
- Titanium frames offer frames with increased flexibility
- Split front leg design adds lateral stability
- Recessed ring design protecting ceramic from impact
- Ringlock press-fit ring system with larger glue reservoir preventing ring loss
- Shorter foot print with increased flexibility (as opposed to an elongated frame design)
- Thicker gauge material adds strength and prevents crushing and deformation
- Two series covering inshore to 20-60# & offshore to 40-80# line ratings
- Available in our hard Nanolite ring, an SiC equivalent

I hope you will consider them as they are perfect for this application.

Best Regards,

Darrin Heim
American Tackle Company