Bloke XL50 7’9＂ 3wt 4-piece fly rod blank ＊NEW＊!
Jeff Smith The Bloke XL50 7’9″ 3wt 4-piece fly rod blank sounds like an excellent choice for a lightweight, versatile fly rod build! Here’s a quick breakdown of its key features and potential uses:
Specs & Highlights:
– Length: 7’9″ – Ideal for small streams, tight quarters, or delicate presentations.
– Line Weight: 3wt – Perfect for small trout, panfish, and dry-fly fishing with finesse.
– 4-Piece Design: Highly portable, great for travel or backpacking.
– Blank Only: Unfinished, allowing customization (guides, grip, reel seat, etc.).
– Action/Performance: Likely fast or medium-fast (common in modern graphite blanks), offering good sensitivity and accuracy.
Best Uses:
– Small mountain streams or spring creeks.
– Dry-fly fishing for trout or bluegill.
– Technical presentations where a delicate touch is needed.
– Backcountry trips due to compact 4-piece design.
Building Considerations:
– Guides: Lightweight single-foot or recoil guides for a 3wt.
– Grip: Smaller cigar or half-wells handle for comfort in small hands.
– Reel Seat: Down-locking for balance with a lightweight reel (e.g., 3-4wt reel).
– Finish: Epoxy wraps for durability; consider a matte or glossy aesthetic.
Why Choose This Blank?
– Bloke Brand: Known for high-performance blanks at competitive prices.
– Niche Length: 7’9″ bridges the gap between short “micro” rods and standard 8′ rods.
– Lightweight Fun: A 3wt makes small fish feel like trophies!
If you’re building it yourself, ensure proper guide spacing and alignment. For pre-built alternatives, check out brands like TFO, Redington, or Echo—though a custom build with the XL50 could be a rewarding project!
Would you like recommendations for components or build tips?