New spey rod soon - line recommendations

[Wayne Kohan]

I received a new blank and componenets in the mail this week and am starting to build a 14 ft 9 wt Sage VPS. I have a Forecast 11'6" 6/7 wt that I built a couple years ago. I've been using this rod with a Rio sinking leader, and have been able to score some fish here on the Columbia with that setup, but only if the water is at the right level. It doesn't seem to get deep enough if the water is a little higher. So my purpose of the new rod is to be able to throw sink tips a little easier. But I would like to use a floating line on it as well.

So can you all give me some line recommendations please? I'm thinking a Skagit line, then maybe make my own tips out of T-14. (I've never done that before.) Also I have an Orvis multi-tip line that I bought a few years ago for my single hand 8 wt, and I never use it. I'm thinking I might be able to put the tips from it to good use. I'm thinking that I would get an extra spool and buy a separate floating line. Would I be better off with a multi-tip spey line?

I 'm also going to have to buy an appropriate reel. The largest reel I have is the Battenkill LA 5, and I don't think it's beg enough to hold a size 9 spey line. I have my SA short head 6/7 on it now, and it doesn't seem to have alot of backing on with that line. Trying to stay economical, I'm looking at the Okuma Integrity 10/11. Thoughts?

Thanks all.

Wayne

[Salmon Chaser]

Wayne, I don't think the Okuma is going to be heavy enough to balance a 14'er. Here is a link to a topic about the reel.http://speypages.com/speyclave/showthread.php?t=24370
it would be nice on that smaller rod of yours though. Personally i'd look for a Young 1535 for the 14'. Lots of room for backing,, will handle most any spey line and has the heft to balance your outfit properly. These reels surface every so often and can be had for around $100,,,often less. Sweet reel,, comparable to a Marquis Salmon#1 or #2,, except a much stronger drag.
I'd recommend a Rio Windcutter with or without tips. Great line. Staying away from the whole Skagit thing,,,cant help you there. Good luck!!
Dwayne
aka Salmon Chaser

[Red Shed]

Skagit 8/9 with a 5' cheater is where I would start.

I think an Okuma Integrity 10/11 will balance a 14' rod OK. I use them a lot with my 14' packages. Also since your rolling your own you can move the reel seat a bit to make the Okuma balance on that rod. Up lock or down lock wi.ll also make a difference.

An Okuma Integrity 10/11 reel weighs 9+oz empty. A 75' 10/11 Carron with 150yds of 30# backing will weigh right at 4oz., so you can figure 12oz to
13oz for the line and reel.