I am getting ready to build a heavy duty casting rod for a family member who will be using it to pitch football jigs and general plastics for bass, he would like the rod built on the St. Croix 5C74HF blank. I have limited experience building casting rods so would appreciate input on the guide train. I will be providing him an option for Fuji Tozite and Fuji Alconite, both titanium, and let him decide how much he wants to spend. That said, i am a little confused as to which guides i should be using and what sizes? My initial take is to go with a 12 (KW or RV), 6 (KT), 4 (KT), with size 4 (KT) runners but am very open to feedback. Also, which stripper guide do i use? It looks like the KW or RV are both options. I am leaning towards using the KT guides as my choker, and running guides. Looking forward to advice from those with more experience than me.

Thanks!

With size 4 runners you should start with the RV6, then 3 KB4, then KT4 to the top. The double legs of the RV FACE THE REEL.

As usual, Jim Ising is right on with his recommendations. Ever since Jim provied that recommendation to me I have been using it on all of my bass casting rods. Works outstanding! The only except being an increase size to #5's on the runners, if the angler is going be be using braid with a top shot of floro.

Don Campbell
don@sensorfishingrods.com

Thanks Jim and Don, i am considering a size 5 versus 4.

Jim - do you know what size runners St. Croix puts on that rod off the shelf? If not, I have no problem calling them. I like the size they have on it.