first thing that u want to do is spine the rod [google it its easier than trying to explain] the reason the first guide is a little off center is if u use a levelwind reel [won't lay the line back on the reel properly if it is straight up. couple of pics of my 9' with abu 6501 [left handed]. just google acid wrap rods and u will be amazed at the amount of info out there. good luck with ur build
paul
sorry the pics are not better