I have been making a rod for a family derby the last few years, the Babin Family Derby or BFD. I always use a Utmost closeout blank for these rods as they want a inexpensive but good quality rod to give away as the prize and they do not care about a warranty. I also try to build a rod that they probably do not have. This year it was a 8'6" 7wt streamer rod. The grip is chinese elm off of the family's property with a moose antler winding check. Reel seat is a YFLY metal seat. Guides are Pacbay light wire in black with Fishawk varigated in wood w/CP.