So here I am, re-watching Southern Trout Eaters for the 4th time since Saturday.  Needless to say, I want to try swimbaiting this upcoming year.  

I want something that I can throw 8" hudds, glide baits (200 size S waver), and similar sizes musky baits.  Thus, what blank ($150 or less) should I build off of?

I would rather build than buy because of Wisconsin winter is horrible.

The Rainshadow RX7  ISWB 945 would fit the bill perfectly and is available for around $100. 

http://www.rainshadowrodblanks.com/product-line/rx7-multipurpose-swimbait/

6 hours ago, Bluebasser86 said:

The Rainshadow RX7  ISWB 945 would fit the bill perfectly and is available for around $100. 

http://www.rainshadowrodblanks.com/product-line/rx7-multipurpose-swimbait/

Do you have experience with this blank?  What I am reading is a mod fast blank is the way to go for these baits (for what its worth).  Plus I will be throwing 80lb braid with this setup so I'm thinking a mod fast would be better anyways?

I don't have the exact blank but my heavier swimbait rod has the exact same specs as the 946 and I've been really happy with it. I don't think you'll have an issue with a fast vs a mod/fast when you get into bigger baits like that. You just need something that will load properly with the baits you're planning on throwing. I'm pretty against throwing swimbaits on braid but if you're set on doing it, then you need a more moderate action.  

50 minutes ago, Bluebasser86 said:

I don't have the exact blank but my heavier swimbait rod has the exact same specs as the 946 and I've been really happy with it. I don't think you'll have an issue with a fast vs a mod/fast when you get into bigger baits like that. You just need something that will load properly with the baits you're planning on throwing. I'm pretty against throwing swimbaits on braid but if you're set on doing it, then you need a more moderate action.  

I am using braid mostly because I'll be using it for musky fishing too.  I want that no stretch line to get good hook sets in a bony musky or pike's mouth.

Look through the swimbait, musky and surf lineups of Rainshadow and MHX. Both have lots to choose from and good prices. 

i have a Rainshadow ISWB 945 , it does have a moderate action , meaning that casting a ROF 12 or 16 8'' Hudd , it will flex up to the handle on the cast , i used it for awhile but wanted something that will handle big baits so i retired that rod . it wil handle up to 6 oz. baits as stated in the specs . it's a great blank for some one looking for a moderate action blank , it weighs only 4 oz. so my only advice is to have at least a 16-18'' handle to combat the stress on your wrists during casting . as of now , my 945 is used for catfish , i extended the handle to 19'' , works great !!

good luck with the build , i'm sure you'll like it ...