I am going to build a set (3 starboard, 3 port) rods for trolling.
I am looking to build using the spiral guide placement system.
The rods will be for trolling for walleye, coho, steelhead, etc....
Sometimes pulling planer boards, other times behind skis.
the blanks will be something like medium power, fast or extra fast action, 12-14 pound, most likely mono.

Does the spiral placement make any real difference, benefit?
Do I need to build for port and starboard?

Thanks, Doug

See you on the water, Doug
Captain Paddlefoot

It makes all the difference in the world. Conventional casting/trolling rods want to flip upside down. So why not let them? Put the guides on t he bottom and obtain a far more stable and easier to fish rod. They'll also be more stable in your rod holders as well.

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I read something about this about 5 or 6 years ago. Somebody was running a tuna troller out of Southern Cal. I think. When he went to spiral wrapped rods, he was losing a lot
of lures on the strike. He finally figured out that it was the spiral that caused it. If the rods are on the port side, spiral left. If the rods are on starboard, spiral right. I'm sure walleye and steelhead
don't hit like tuna but he had 130# rods not 14# rods. Why take the chance. Lures are getting expensive. Give yourself all the chances you can.

Mac

There is no way a spiral wrap will cause you to lose a lure. The lure has no idea where the guides are and neither does the line. Whoever cooked up that stuff was smoking something illegal (well, illegal in some states).

Which side you spiral to is only going to affect being able to lay the rod on the deck wtih the reel handle up, or assist in leveling the line on reels with no level wind. But it will not in any way affect the line or lure themselves.



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If you are that concerned about what side the spiral should be on when trolling then the left spiral should be to the port and the right should be to starboard. I have never seen a difference when hooking up. As my Father would say; "Don't be such a land lubber". I would like to know your dealer



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 01/29/2017 08:11AM by Tom Kirkman.

You will be pleased with the results. Like Tom said spiral turns towards the reel handle so you can lay rod on flat surface. The "Tuna" guy needs to learn how to tie better knots and adjust his drag properly.