I had taken a rod building class about a year and a half ago and started to build my own 9' plugging rod. Lami blank, 102L I think it was, with a cork ring rod butt. I like the solid cork grip, the way it feels in my hands is great because my hands are kind of large, so the larger butt is more comfortable. So I finished the rod butt, and because I have a small apartment with no work area at all, the rod sat for over a year unfinished. So I took the rod to someone to have the guides and rod wrap put on and have the rod completed. Got the rod back and BOY, I just love it. It is conventional with an Abu 6500 Big Game reel. I feel more comfortable now with conventional equipment than with spinning gear. Anyway, I went out to one of my favorite spots to throw pencil poppers at the fishies, and the first fish caught on my new rod was a nice keeper bass about 30". The rod just handled that fish nicely and it casts like a dream.

Saltheart, what type of rod butt do you prefer? Solid cork, cork tape, etc. Just curious.:confused:

I like cork tape. i like the non slip the added rubber implies. I know what you mean about having a bigger grip for bigger hands though. You can also get that with cork tape by using a second or even third layer. just be sure to reverse the direction you wrap it on for each layer so the seams cross between each layer rather than run parallel.

Congrats on the fish on the rod you built. Oh what a feeling!! :)

Thanks Saltheart. I am looking forward to building a few more rods this winter and completing them myself. All done with the store bought 2 piece rods, they are a pain in the butt.:laugha: :hihi: I always hated the way they always loosen up from repeated casting, no matter what I tried they kept coming loose. All one piece rods for me. Storage can be more difficult, but that is the price I will pay. Its worth it. Thanks again.

congrats on the fish,
how you like that 6500 big game? i think im going to up grade from my C3 in a while.
i cant stand thin rod butts, i like big butts and i can not lie and you other bothers.................but seriously i need somthing to hold on to.:D