Im looking for some input on the H&H Forecast blanks in the upper weights like an 8 or 9. Im looking to build a steelhead rod in the near future. Any positive or negative comments would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Seege
FIREMAN;
I have the same question so I’m just going to lurk here and take a free ride on your post!!
I feel more like I do now than I did when I got here!
Cactus AKA “Lucky Dog (Pirate Name)”
I started wrapping the lighter Forecast blanks (5 wt or less and 8’ or less) and really enjoyed how they cast for me. I did a 9’ 9 weight after that because I got the blank cheap and “needed” something to fill in the heavier end of the spectrum. It is heavier and longer than the other rods and feels different due to that alone, but still I think it is similar to the rest of the line as far as action and how it fits my casting style. Overall I like it.
I built two Forecast 9’ 4 piece 9 weights this year, both were setup for saltwater fishing one is a traditional fly rod the other is a spinning rod. The spinner casts a 9wt dt flyline better than the dedicated fly rod but does not cast momo as well as I had expected. The fly rod does cast a 9 wt well. I do not have a 10 wt line so can’t comment on overlining, but just by the feel of the 9wt line loading I think I would not go any higher in line weights. The action is definately moderate. I prefer a moderate action so this blank works well for me. It will cast lighter tippets with small flies without breaking off the flies as is often the case with faster blanks. The 9 weight definately has the “Forecast feel” as in the lighter blanks… FB.
I’ve built and sold 2 rods in the upper weights they are being used for Steel, & Salmon.
Both were FC4 pc. models.
1-7wt.primarily for steelhead
1-8wt. for salmon
Both have landed their fair share of fish with no problems from feedback received.
I just completed another 4pc.8wt(for myself) with planned usage on stripers/ salt.
I dont think you will go wrong with an FC moderate action blank.
[This message has been edited by Smernsky (edited 13 October 2005).]
I think we might be confusing different blanks and my apoligies for that. Im referring to the blue blanks from Hook and Hackle that are usually 33% off. Any other input is still welcome. Especially if Jack is hitchin a ride on this thread. Hi Jack!!!
Fireman the 9wt blanks I posted on were the blue blanks from H&H… FB.
We are talking about the same blanks…
I finally realized that we are talking about the same blanks, what a coinkindink. My bad.
Thanks,
Seege
Fireman;
Thanks for the ride, this is some good info! I’m working on a 9’ 5wt Forecast right now. May not get to the heavy weight 'til the Spring run. I’ve only been Steelheading once and have alot to learn!!
I feel more like I do now than I did when I got here!
Cactus AKA “Lucky Dog (Pirate Name)”
Jack Im building the same rod for my father in law let me know how yours goes.
Seege
FIREMAN;
First: I used 000 steelwool to “Kill” the gloss. I masked the male furrel so as not to make it undersize. The change in gloss is very subtle, only apparent when next to a glossy section.
Second: In honor of that lucky Irishman ohiotuber I’m using green thread on the wraps.
Third: I had Bob swap out the grip for a full wells. They feel better in my hand.
It’s been very busy getting ready for winter that this rod is going slow. But I’ve got a lot of time to finish it.
I’m about to order a 7’ 6" 4 wgt. but want to get more info on using a 5 wgt. line on it.
I built a forecast 9’5wt.from a h&h kit. A pleasure to cast especially good rollcasting rod. I plan to get another butt section and build
BTW if you want to dull the gloss finish try using a Scotchbrite cleaning pad sold in most supermarket cleaning sections it does a much smoother job without harming the graphite… FB.
(sorry part missing)I plan to get another butt section and build a custom grip using exotic burl cork.I believe if your going to build a custom rod it should look special and not just a copy of a commercial rod…FB.
Jack Ive built the Forecast 7’ 6" 2pc 3wt and love it. It is definately a great casting rod. Ive got a peach double tapered line with an Orvis Battenkill reel to match.
On of my favorite rods!
Seege
Seege, I don’t know if it’s the same blank, but I did a Forecast I picked up from Dan Craft. It’s rated an 8 weight, but a pro shop guy I trust gave it a whirl and suggested I line it with a bullet-head 10 weight line. The 8 was a little soft. When I finally got around to relining the rod it just came alive. It has some backbone that’s for sure. My rod has a more of a bluish-grayish cast than a green hue, if that serves as a clue. I use it mainly for fighting the brush and weeds with hairy bass flies, and those large pike flies. JGW