Delaware Valley Tackle

Don't get too hung up on power and action labels between brands. It's all subjective. A MH St croix will have the power and lure weight ratings of others Hvy. That doesn't mean either is right or wrong. Applied correctly, st croix rods are good over the counter choices especially avid and up.

There are lots of 6'6" and up. Under that pickings can be slim. There are lots of 6' blanks available in popular bass power/action combos.

The line will not damage your reel. The real question is if it the right line for the application. I fish braid on 80% of my rigs occasionally with a leader often not.

They are light and crisp with plenty of power.

Among the top blanks there is no head and shoulders winner in performance or quality but in some cases cost. It comes down to subtle differences in action and power which can only be appreciated or distinguished by fishing them. Rainshadow, MHX and Rodgeeks are all hard to beat performance or price wise.

If Deeps suggestion didn't work there's possibly an internal issue . Hard to diagnose sight unseen.

I'm having trouble visualizing what is being described. The Calais is a little tricky to work on. I don't recommend diy on them for the uninitiated. I'll be happy to take a look if you'd like.

My thought as well.

Just being constructive. You're doing fine. The main thing is to enjoy yourself. ?

All good suggestions

It's after a season or two of hard use that that low end reels show their true colors. For casual use they can fit the bill though.

My service fee for members here is <$20 ($22-10%) shipping about $6 each way and parts $10 +/-. Email or pm me and I'll see if I can help you correct it yourself.

There is a point of diminishing returns in both areas. For feel techniques like jigs and plastics skew the budget toward the Rod. For moving baits like cranks etc you can get by with less Rod and a step up in reel can prove enjoyable.

Just another rebranded cheapy. As for bearing count, it means nothing compared to quality bearings in key spots. All else being equal, maybe. Even then it's only maybe. The Core is a great example.

12 guides is a lot for that blank. I'd reexamine your static testing procedure. On a drop shot Rod where long casts aren't critical the microwave kit will work but not offer any real advantage. I'd opt for the lightest weight train I could put together.

The same setup used for spinner baits of similar weight. M or MH fast action, normal speed reel (6.1:1 etc). Copolymer or braid with leader for abrasion resistance around wood. Personally I don't subscribe to the pulling bait away from a fish theory. If your getting short strikes change size, color, speed or another variable.

The thread holds the guide and the finish protects the thread. Saturation is nice added security but not a deal breaker. A coat of CP helps with the bubbles on longer wraps.

The revo line is good quality and the centrifugal brakes of the S model are user friendly. A good choice to learn on.

The builder you choose should be your best resource for such advice. I'd be happy to work with you if you haven't chosen yet.

Braid is not ideal in subfreezing temps. Not much you can do about it. Mono / fluorocarbon / copolymer will be a little easier to deal with.

If it's texposed and the hook is sharp a med power fast action Rod should work fine.

I use 80-140 gear oil precisely for the range of temperature. It's easier to get into a bearing than packing with grease and gives a more free feeling. The spray grease is not a bad choice for the level wind. The idea there is that regular grease attracts contaminants and gums up in the exposed application .

Once cured, epoxy is very durable. There is little to no chance of a graphite Rod taking a set. It would almost have to be intentional with a combo of heat and flex over a period of time. Rods can be stored either vertically or horizontally. To avoid damage avoid pressure on the tip area. Store is a place protected from rodents that will chew Eva and cork. Make sure things are clean and dry for storage.

The PQ is arguably the biggest bang for the buck in your list and comes in a variety of ratio and lefty-righty configurations. The PQ lews and Pflueger are all on the same platform. You don't need anything specialized. A sturdy frame, good drag (smooth and consistent more than lock down) left hand retrieve, comfortable size and fast ratio/ipt are my preferences.

T rigs, jigs, skipping, paddle tail swim baits maybe rattle traps. Should be pretty versatile and multi purpose.