I'm seeking advise as to what length,power and action blank to build on? Again this rod would mainly be used for 2-4oz swimbaits. Also would you prefer a full or split grip since the butt is typically longer to handle a larger rod.

Thanks in advance!!!!!
Matt

How much do you want to spend? MH - H, something close to 8 feet. I like a split grip but that is more of a personal feeling. MHX has a couple of options, Phenix has some options - most of the blank manufacturers carry swimbait blanks, you just need to choose a brand. If you are just wanting a swimbait rod I have a Crucial or a Megabass Lavante Laviathon that I would make a deal on. If you could talk your pardner into it I'd trade both my swimbait rods for that Ranger that's for sale!

This said partner is the one wanting to have this rod built. Almost looking for perfection in a rod of this size and want to make sure it's right.

Is he throwing hard bodied glide baits or big soft baits? It helps to know what baits and not just the weight.

So he is going full sized live shiner fishing? Bout time.

These and others similar

I would say yes pretty close to shiner fishing.

If he is set on a custom build: For the blank I would go with Phenix Ultra 7'11 MH, rated for 1-5oz baits and a full cork grip. Fuji Titanium K frame guides with SIC inserts. I don't see any reason to go with Torzites on a swimbait rod.

And if he is looking for a builder, he should look at CoastalBend custom rods. Kyle only does a few rods a year, but his work is fantastic. I have a swimbait rod he did built on a Phenix Ultra blank.

http://www.coastalbendrods.com/

I had leviathan rods build me a custom 8'H its actually builthe to be big cranking rod, but it works awesome with arigs and 6" glides in am waiting on my shipment of 8" glides and I plan on throwing them on this same rod. The 6" glide I throw is a hair under 2oz. Also those shine glides are very nice baits for the price.

Check out the Lew's Mag swimbait rod, it is a heavy action, split grip, 8' rod...It works very well with big glide baits, big hudds, A-Rigs and will throw the swimbaits shown with ease and not break the bank.

If have you head set on getting one built, check out the guys over at Moam Swimbait rods, I was able to use a few of their rods on a trip i took with Mickey Ellis with 3:16 lure company, they are very well built.

http://www.moamsticks.com/

So looks like the consensus is a long heavy action rod but what action tip? My first thought was exfast but the more I think about it I would think you would want more bend at the tip for fighting he fish. Is my thinking correct?

Tell him get the Dobyns fury 795. He doesn't need to build a rod for those size baits. The fury is cheap and good quality for the price point. Until you are getting really serious or are throwing baits over 10oz you don't need to build a custom. There are plenty of off the rack options that will do just fine. Unless he just wants to build a rod. He will be happy w the Dobyns!

Fast Taper is likely what he is looking for.

Thanks guys!