Been watching too much YouTube and the mile-long casts with switch and spey rods. It's got me intrigued. While I won't be chasing salmon or steelhead here in TX, I could be casting to largemouth from a boat, reds at the coast, or just just trying to reach the other side of the Llano. I'm looking for recommendations on an entry-level switch rod, 4 or 5 or 6-weight, that I can build up myself. I found some very reasonably priced fiberglass switch/spey rods on Anglersroost but would like some ideas from y'all. Thanks.
I’ve never even cast a switch rod in my life but I’m running out of rods to build for my quiver and have considered building one. I really don’t have a use for one but if I had to buy a switch blank tomorrow I’d look real hard at the Batson RX7 10’8” 7wt. I’ve built on RX7s for fly rods and they are a sound product. Anglers Habitat has the switch blanks on sale frequently on the auction site for $50 + $17 shipping. If I were to build a switch just to play around with that blank would be on my short list considering the price and the RX7 reputation.
I am extremely happy with two different ARE UHM 2-handed rods that I have built. I also have 2 cabelas LSI and a Sage One...I am happy with all of them...you can probably find a good buy on a sage one blank. Try MRFC if you are looking for a higher end blank.
His blanks are very reasonable, and you can have the best two-handed grip/seat assembly available with the RTW kit. Plus it doesn't hurt he knows as much about switch rods as anyone. Tell him how you'll use the rod, and he'll match you with the right blank.
All the above are good suggestions. PacBay also makes switch blanks. The problem with low end blanks is that if you break the rod, manufacturers will not replace the broken piece, but rather the whole blank if they deem the breakage a manufacturing flaw.
Tight lines,
Keith
PS. I would also consider a Steve Godshall blank.
I have also had good luck dealing with YeOlde English Fly Shop. You have lots of options. I would personally not start with a high end blank until you get some practice wrapping....even if you need to use some dowels to practice on first.
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