Has anyone tried spiral guides? If so do they increase casting distance and reduce line twist ?  Thanks in advance

rosewalt,

If you mean spiral wrapped rods, there are many members who use them, build them and are big fans of the concept. Spiral wrapping only applies to bait casting rods because spinning rods already have the guides on the bottom of the rod. Baitcasting rods need the spiral wrapping to move the guides to the bottom of the rod to enjoy the inherent advantages of a spinning rod. Line twist is not usually a problem for bait casting reels, so spiral wrapping should not affect this one way or the other. I would say, from my experience with several spiral wrapped baitcasters, that casting distance is not affected at, but and the general performance of the rod (fish fighting) is enhanced a great deal. JMHO

Ronnie

Spiral guide placement is wonderful. It doesn't change the distance of the cast when done right.

In addition, it will reduce the felt torque and you will feel a big difference after a day of throwing spinnerbaits or crankbaits.