Building An 8Wt

[Kayser]

So It's February, and I'm looking at breaking out the rod building stuff again. Since my current rod selection kind of struggles with throwing my favorite streamers, I'm looking for an 8wt. As much as I love my Winston, I don't think I could bring myself to spend $450 on a blank for a rod that I'm gonna beat to hell with ugly streamers, mud, sand, and plus-sized fish.

So can anyone reccommend a good 8wt blank, 4 piece for portability, that won't break the bank? Hoping to stay around or below $200, but will venture up to about $250. And I've already picked out the components, so just need the rod blank.

Rob

[drew03cmc]

Look at a St. Croix blank. They are made in the USA and fish very well, often true to marked weight.

[Kayser]

Found their blank chart, and they confused the pieces with the weight columns. However, I think I found one- I908.4. 9', 8wt, 4 piece, fast action. Also found a kit for $200, but thinking about just getting the blank for $170 and getting the rest of the components elsewhere. More expensive, but it'll definitely be custom.

[crawfly]

I believe Charlie Reading is selling blanks & kits. Pretty sure he's dealing TFO but I imagine he can get others.

Give him a call. At the least, he could be your source for components mebbe.

http://www.superpages.com/bp/Lebanon-MO/Readings-Fly-Shop-L0098570825.htm

[Wayne SW/MO]

I would see if the Clouser or Bank Robber is available.

Looks like the Bank Robber is, $280.

It was designed by a guy, Kelly Galloup, who is fond of big articulated streamers.

[am4mu]

You might look at the MHX blanks from Mudhole. I just built a 7wt and it is awesome. Didn't break the bank either.

[Brian K. Shaffer]

I have a 9'6" 5wt.. if you are interested.

Not an 8.. but it'll handle a 7.

GLoomis IMX - partially built-handle assembled.

[Kayser]

I've already got a 4 and a 5, need the 8. Gonna throw big streamers (or poppers) and chase ugly fish with this thing. Think sweat, mud, and slime.

[Wayne SW/MO]

If you're not looking for an all around 8wt you should seriously consider a blank designed for streamers.

[Gavin]

I'd take a look at a Rainshadow blank from Batson. I've heard good things about their fly blanks and I'm pleased with the casting rod I made from one of their blanks. Their prices are very reasonable.