Not technically my first build as I’ve built an ice rod but my first open water rod. I want to build a drop shot rod for 1/8-1/4 oz weights mostly to run with either 6lb mono/fluoro or 10 lb braid with a leader. Based on the specs I’ve decided on a MHX DS821 blank. Does this sound like a good choice for my application?

For guides I’m thinking of the KR concept layout with alconite rings in the 20H/10H/5.5M sizes for the reduction and size 4 for the running guides. Will this pair well with drop shot rod? Also, will a leader knot travel through size 4 runners or would it be better to go up to 4.5 or 5’S?

Thanks,

Joe

Joe,

I have built plenty of D/S Rods on various blanks. My customers all say the best D/S blank they have used is the Rainshadow RX8 –XSB 822.5, Length 6’-10”, Line Wt. 6 – 14 lb., Lure Wt. 1/8 – 5/8 oz., Butt Dia. 0.392”, Tip 4.5, Action Fast, Power Medium. As for guides I would use either the Fuji KL16H, KL8H, KL6M or KL5.5L for the reduction train. Or....If you haven't try them I would highly recommend the American Tackle's MicroWave guide set for a spinning rod. They are a dream to cast.

Don Campbell
don@sensorfishingrods.com

Any experience with the RS Revalation? That looks to be the model closest the the MHX I was considering in terms of price.

Joe

Joe,

I am not familiar with the RS Revelation. It is my understanding the RX8 - XSB 822.5 are still available. Give Utmost Enterprises a call and they can definitely tell you everything about the Revelations and whether the RX 8's are still available. Don't get me wrong, the Mudhole blanks are very good, ( I build a lot of them), I just have not ever built one of their D/S rods.

Don Campbell
don@sensorfishingrods.com

The DS821 is very good (the Batson too).
For this application KL16H, KL8H, KL5.5M then KT4 thru tip.
And keep handle short.

________________________________________
@+
Eric
[www.emfishing.fr]

Joe,
Are you building this rod as a spinning rod or a casting rod?

If you are running a 10 lb leader with a knot to tie to the flouro, I would be careful about going too small on the guides.

You can do some testing, but I think that if you are running a knot, you will have less trouble with a larger guide and tip. Your choice.

I like to use a balanced rod. so, with the reel in place I like to have the handle long enough so that the rod is balanced. This is especially true for a drop shot rod where you are really looking for a twitch on the tip of the rod.

Be safe