Game fishing rods!

[Lovey80]

Hi all probably first post in this section. I have never built a rod before but am considering building some game fishing rods now that I have a boat that can do it. I am thinking the reels will be Shimano Tiagra 50w's ( one at a time at those prices ). So I thought I would put it out there.

If you were to build a custom game rod what would you want on it? What blank to buy? Where to get the best bits at the best prices? Is it cheaper building a rod yourself?

These will be my first rod builds so won't be attempting any fancy weaves like you artists but want them strong and reliable.

[Stuart]

Game rods are certainly my specialty. If you were to build your own rods you wouldn’t and shouldn’t go for guides ONLY roller guides and Aftco at that. In having said that guides such as Fuji are good but they simply won’t stand up to the pressure over time. They wont Any SIC guide will never be able to transfer heat fast enough on a Blue marlins first run. This is where Aftco roller guides come in to there own.

You will won’t the Aftco heavy duty in sizes 41 x 4 and 51 x 1, the tip you will need a 112L. As for the blank, have a look at the Calstars, they will fit the bill perfectly. You will won’t to stay away from blanks such as Seeker as most all of them are E glass and will soften with time and use. If you don’t intend on using an Aftco Uni butt then you will be better served to use Aftco number 3 reel seats on the rods and size 3 gimbles. Aftco is so far ahead of the competition it’s not funny. I have been using Aftco for over 20 years and the gear just keeps going with absolutely no problems.

Stu

[jeffo]

Going all out straight up Lovey. Straight into building heavy tackle rods. Stuie is the man when it comes to heavy tackle rods. We actually wound a few in on his 24 and 37kg sticks last weekend (straight butt 24 and bent butt 37- both stand up) Cant beat em.

[Lovey80]

Went down to tackle world today. Think I may start out with light tackle first until I get some experience. Let's scale that back to 8kg game rods first am see how I go. Are rollers really necessary for light tackle?

[Stuart]

Rollers are great on all lines classes but not essential. Fuji SIC guides are fine for 8kg.

Stu

[Micadogs]

Hi Lovey, building rods is a great hobby and very addictive when you get into it. It is relatively easy also, but start with the basics first and build your skills.

If you want heavy game rods, then suggest get someone to build for you. In terms of cost, think about how much it costs for reels, tackle, fuel etc to chase marlin. If your rod fails then you have blown a significant amount.

Getting a custom rod built for this purpose will last a lifetime.

I wouls still have a crack at 8kg yourself though, this forum will provide plenty of advice to assist on your journey. There is nothing more satisfying pulling in a PB fish with a rod you built yourself.

Regards Adam

[sid_fishes]

mate ,if you have a look at the rod building weekend photos, taken by greg[ pinhead] you will see an 8 kg rod built by stuart
and this guy knows his shit, those aftco rollers are to be on my next 8 kg rod just so i can say i built it
ian