Eel Rod Setup

[Surf Caster]

Bill - Hope you're well! We had high hopes for that night too, but hey that's fishing for you. Yes, I like the idea of a bit shorter rod while swimming. I think the added mobility will be nice. Also, in some of the places I have in mind, distance is not hugely important. If fishing a spot where I really need the distance, I can always break out the 11M.

As for the concept guides, I fished all last yr with them and swam with them and it wasn't an issue. Now, I admit COF would be much easier to run line through, but like you said - pros & cons.

[SeaWolf]

you've received some good advice so far. i'll give you some of my rod and reel advice:

1.) i would NOT recommend an aluminum reel seat. full parabolic blanks and aluminum reel seats can cause rod failure.
stick with a fuji DPSM or DPSD seat. yeah, the VS reel foot can move. i've purposely twisted my VS250 45 degrees off center to prove a point. but, once locked in the seat, i've never had issues. just don't over-tighten or you can pull the locking screw from the reel foot hood. if you go NPS, make sure if fits you reel. they don't fit all reels.
2.) incorporate a new guide concept system in your rod build. a well built NGC will outperform a COF built rod and the rod will feel very responsive, as well as fight fish better.
Saltheart put you on the right track for guides.
3.) a VS200 will outcast a 250 because the spool is narrower. i would only suggest a 250 if you ever want a reel that can also handle tuna. or else, a 200 does what you need.

[cheferson]

1201m matched with a vs200!