I have a cheaper St Croix Triumph FRESHWATER spinning rod I'd like to use for casting light spoons and jigs for specks and reds, but am afraid the guides will rust out? Will a hose spray down or WD 40 spray down after use prevent this, or will the rust out no matter what?

This is the one Ive got:

    * Premium-quality SCII graphite.

    * Outstanding strength, sensitivity and hook-setting power.

    * Finely tuned actions and tapers for superior performance.

    * Hard aluminum-oxide guides with black frames.

    * Fuji® DPS reel seat/frosted silver hoods on spinning models.

    * Fuji® ECS or TCS reel seat/frosted silver hood on casting models.

    * Premium-grade cork handle.

    * Two coats of Flex Coat slow-cure finish.

    * 5-year warranty backed by St. Croix Superstar Service.

    * Designed in Park Falls and handcrafted in Fresnillo, Mexico.

Just rinse and you'll be fine. I've done it for years.

I own two of those rods, one ML and the other Medium action. I have used both in saltwater all the time. The medium action is over three years old. I also have a Shimano Clarus that I  have used for inshore fishing for 8 years with no problems

Clarus guides will not rust out.  I have a cheap rod I love that the guides get brittle then crack and the insert falls out.  My remedy that works perfect.........super glue the insert back in and you are good for another year.  I fish saltwater everyday, but limited time in the brine should have no ill effects on a rod.