I've decided to pull the trigger on getting a custom rod finally. I'm thinking of something between 6' 6'' and 7' in MH fast action for an all purpose (or as close as possible) stick.

 If money were no object, what components would you use? Blank, guides, reel seat, customization, etc ?

If you have a little money to spare, contact Matt Davis at Otterods.  He's the rod guru and will offer you a world of choices.

I spent over a week communicating back and forth picking out every part and component of a rod and precise customizations.

There are also some excellent rod builders on this forum.

Right now, I'd be thinking worm rod... and the HM blank from North Fork Composites (as soon as it's available)...  ECSM reel seat, exotic burl cork, gold cermet's or Ti SiC or alconites, depending on line choice and theme.  Chopped and dropped, of course.  Since you said no cost limit, I'd have to do some inlay work in the cork and probably more.

There are many good blanks out there but Fuji are the only components I would put on them.  

I'd use an ugly stick blank. Yea, definatley an ugly stick!

I don't know enough about custom. Flechero builds them though, I do know that much.

If money were no object, what components would you use?

IMPO I wouldn't spend that kind of money (custom build rates) on an all around rod. There are plenty of really good all purpose rods in racks 6'6" to 7' med fast.

I think that a really good custom rod is built for a specific reel weight, blank power, tip action, and lure range for a stated technique..

Not trying to rain on anything, just a builders thought..

Good Luck & Tight Lines!!!

If money were no object, what components would you use?

IMPO I wouldn't spend that kind of money (custom build rates) on an all around rod. There are plenty of really good all purpose rods in racks 6'6" to 7' med fast.

I think that a really good custom rod is built for a specific reel weight, blank power, tip action, and lure range for a stated technique..

Not trying to rain on anything, just a builders thought..

Good Luck & Tight Lines!!!

Hmm....

Think this guy might know something?

8-)

Reel Mechanic knows his stuff, no doubt...there are tons of great rods out there already built.  However...

If you were looking for a full custom, no holds barred rod, I would go with a GLX blank and Matagi components.  For guides, I'd use Cermet, as they are the hardest/lightest rod guides you can buy, period.

you might want to think about a longer rod , i used to think a 7' rod would be plenty long but ever since i got my swimbait rods , wich are both 7' 11'' , i now want to get a 7' 6'' MH  and a 7' 6'' MED. . btw , i use my 2-6 oz. swimbait rod for throwing frogs and the long length really helps with getting super long , accurate casts . just my opinion.....

If money were no object, what components would you use?

IMPO I wouldn't spend that kind of money (custom build rates) on an all around rod. There are plenty of really good all purpose rods in racks 6'6" to 7' med fast.

I think that a really good custom rod is built for a specific reel weight, blank power, tip action, and lure range for a stated technique..

Not trying to rain on anything, just a builders thought..

Good Luck & Tight Lines!!!

You make a very valid point reel mechanic and I appreciate your honesty, my main reason for going custom is I want a GLX blank (though I'm still flexible), but find the GLX rods to be just too plain looking for such a high dollar rod.I'm thinking a split grip with a trick realseat, no or custom foregrip,  and maybe some more stuff. I'm just curious as to what can be done and thought I could get some quick ideas from you guys.

pgersmunky- thanks for the advice, but 7'6'' is just to much rod for what I'm looking for. I often hit backwoods areas on foot and with trees it just wouldnt work. (ever hit a tree limb as you go to make a really long cast with a baitcaster?  > )

Thanks Guys,

Josh

I'm not opposed to a custom for all around use... I build my own "utility" rods very different from factory. They are still made to my own grip specs, configuration and balance point. And whatever I choose on colors, wraps, inlays, etc. But I'll concede that a technique specific would be better. (If I didn't build, I might not spend that much money on the utility rods)

I wouldn't build a GLX blank if I got it for 1/2 price. According to Loomis, they are not going to continue to warranty blanks with blanks... meaning that if you break your $$$ custom, you'll get a factory built replacement as your warranty.   :-?  :-X

Yes, I know that's ridiculous and would cost them more but that what has been publicly stated. They must really want out of the blank business.

The North Fork blanks will be a 'natural' finish (sanded and unpainted) as well so no sense in building a GLX.

pgersmunky- thanks for the advice, but 7'6'' is just to much rod for what I'm looking for. I often hit backwoods areas on foot and with trees it just wouldnt work. (ever hit a tree limb as you go to make a really long cast with a baitcaster?

Another really good reason for no custom. I don't even use my personal customs from the brushy banks anymore. I have some really old 6'6" to 7' 96% Graphite Loomis' I will use when I know i'm going to be bank/brush bound.

With over 10,000 top notch custom builders in the country, only 1% of the angling public actually understand custom rods and buy...

Another thought...

Good Luck & Tight Lines All!!!  

Right now, I'd be thinking worm rod... and the HM blank from North Fork Composites (as soon as it's available)... ECSM reel seat, exotic burl cork, gold cermet's or Ti SiC or alconites, depending on line choice and theme. Chopped and dropped, of course. Since you said no cost limit, I'd have to do some inlay work in the cork and probably more.

when can you start building this rod for me

Here is some "food for thought" 8-)

Doc