RE: Rod for SRC in Salt

[Ransom, Sean]

Title: Message

I think I may have just traded you an 890 rplxi for the perfect cuttie rod...   I have mainly used (and still will at times) a 790 rplxi I custom built. It has a removable butt that I never have on there when I am cutthroat fishing. It is nice to have a nice 7 weight for times when you want to throw a bigger popper or candlefish imitation. Nice if the wind picks up.   However now I have a 690-4 Xi2 custom built by I think Steve that rocks. This rod is more of a 6-7 but is a rocket launcher. Does not do a great job of throwing really short unless you really overline it but for cuttie fishing casts of 50 ft or better are the norm and this rod handles distances up to 100 ft no problem (at least on the grass) with good size flies. It has as much backbone as my 7 but in a much lighter package. For me this is pretty close to perfect.   Steve also does a good wrap job as well, a very pretty rod.   -sean     -----Original Message----- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of The Coles Sent: Thursday, November 11, 2004 11:12 AM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Rod for SRC in Salt One of my winter projects is to build an affordable yet well designed fly rod that is specifically for fishing cutthroat in the salt.  I just read the section in Les Johnson's new book to get his take on the subject and Les lays out a very practical description for what is needed, particularly with respect to componentry (aluminum or graphite reel seats, salt resistant guideset, and thorough epoxy to seal the guide feet from saltwater intrusion).    I am looking for input from other list members on what their favorite SRC saltwater set up is and why?  So far I am leaning towards a two piece moderately fast action rod 8'8" to 9'6" in length There are lots of candidates for all metal and graphite reel seats that would fit the bill - Struble, REC, T&T, PacBay, Bellinger, et al all offer quality aluminum (and titanium) seats specifically for saltwater use, with prices ranging from $15 - $140 for a seat.  I haven't been able to find an objective review comparing the performance qualities of reel seats, though (does such a thing exist?).  The other design question is whether the "ideal" SRC-in-salt rod would have a fighting butt.  Guides seem easy enough to make decisions about as I'd think that any stainless steel with either black chrome or titanium nitrate finishes would do an adequate job.  What style of grip?  I fish alot with a Scott SAS 906/5 that has a "western" style grip but I am thinking that full wells might be the way to go.  Any insights on grip styles?   That's it for now...  look forward to hearing from you all on my topic   Steve Cole