When I decide I "need' a new rod it's to fish with. Rarely does anyone see it but me.
I find I like the light weight graphite spinning rod reel seats, I use plain old snake guides, and a grip with some "texture" to it is easier to hold on to. I like plain wraps, no hook keeper. I don't even write on the blank.
Everything is very plain, simple, and clean.
I do like a half decent blank though. The Pac Bay Rainforest is a favorite
The simpler the outfit, the more skill it takes to manage it, and the more pleasure one gets in his achievements.
--- Horace Kephart