I'm building a surf rod on a Lamiglas Super Surf with a 150 VS reel. I have been reading and asking about the NGC theory and have a good grip on the theory. The GPS software offers a choice of all the guides sizes and spacing using a specific guide to create the reduction train suggesting using on 3 or 4 of those available to .create the best setup. I can't find any guidance on the selection of belly guides or running guides other than using the smallest size possible. Without buying every KW guide available and in some cases multiples for the running guides, can someone offer some guidance to the ultimate selection of the size of the train guides, belly guides and running guides. I understand using a static test for the spacing and number of guides in the setup. However, choosing the sizes of the guides for the reduction train even after being given the size and spacing isn't bad enough, but "select the smallest guide that will work" or "whatever looks good" isn't very scientific. That may work after you have built a hundred rods, but for a newbie like me it only muddies the water even more

Thanks in advance

Chris

Running guide size is dependent upon a number of different things. For example, the type of line and # test you are planning on using and whether or not you will be passing leader knots. If using braid you can use smaller guides (8 - 6), if using heavy mono (17# and up) may want to use a size larger running guide. The use of large leader to line knots may require a larger runner in order to pass it smoothly without catching to help prevent breakoffs. So the choice of runner size is up to you and the way you fish. That is one of the reasons you see a lack of info on running guide sizes. Basically, use the smallest guide that will get the job done. Many will use a size 8 when using braid and a size 10 when using mono or big leader knots. If you are planning on using leaders try using the FG knot, it has the smallest diameter of any knot you can use, yet is also the strongest. A hard combination to beat.
PS - with double ft KW guides belly guide terminology does not apply.
Norm



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 03/11/2017 11:00AM by Norman Miller.

I would go size 8 KW as running guides
I don't fish braid over 65lb usually 40 or 50 and leaders in 30lb range plus or minus 10

Norman
at what line/leader weight with which knots do you need typically a size 10 running guide?

Bert- I never use a size 10 runner, but many do. If you are attaching a heavy mono shock leader to a Bimini twist, using a double uniknot, or any knot with a tag at each end of the knot, or a knot with the tag at the leading end of the knot, you might want to consider a larger runner. The nice thing about the FG knot is its smallest diameter is at the leading end of the knot, and the tag is at the rear of the knot so it passes smoothly through the guides when casting.
Norm

Thank you Norman. I was thinking of starting with 25, 16 and 10 for the red train, then using 8 for the runners spaced no less than 4" and no more than 6" placed where the static guide takes me. Close?

Chris

Thank you Norman

Sounds good. May be able to spread the spacing a little and use fewer guides, but that will depend on the static testing and overall flex in the rod. Important to test cast to make sure it casts smoothly.
Norm