What’s a good source, online or local, for better guides than what come on most spinning rods ? Anyone got any favorites ?
Haven’t had any trouble with rod guides on any spinning rods except for the cheep rods. Ff you replace the guides on a rod, you quickly have spent more money than buying a better rod. Even if you do the work yourself.
If I break a good rod then the store where I bought it has replaced it. No questions asked. Just MY thoughts. I don’t work for any fishing store and would quickly tell you if they didn’t stand by there inventory.
www.mudhole.com is a good resource.
Replacing guides on a rod is not a wasted effort. There are two main things to consider. First is the quality of the guides themselves which you are asking and second is the number/spacing of the guides.
I have transformed an okay rod into a very good rod with a $15 Fuji Hardloy Concept guide kit and about 3 hours of labor. Granted that I have a rod building jig, but having the ability to repair, modify, and build your own rods is not that big of an investment over a lifetime of fishing.
As for my favorites, I personally go for moderately priced guides like Fuji Alconite and comparable offerings from American Tackle. Againg the number, size and spacing a just as or more important. I really like zirconium nitride coated rings (like chrome plated in a variety of colors) because relatively good cost and they have a super hard finish over a durable (breakage resistant) ring material. The hard finish really make a difference with casting distance and cuts down on the “ZZZZZ” sound that braid makes going through the guides.
I would be happy to help you out more; I’ve built a lot of rods. Just send me a PM.
Iain Pelto
Edgewater 185CC “Jumpin’ Bean II”
Checkout a company called Jann’s Netcraft. They have good prices and good info.
haddrells has em for $1-$2 or less per guide for good ones. maybe a little more if they install em.