[boutdoors]

Hi new to the board,
I was wondering if anyone has tried one of the Cabelas Rod kits? Are they good for a first timer to start out on? Thanks for your feedback
Robert

[outdoorguy3]

Originally Posted by boutdoors

Hi new to the board,
I was wondering if anyone has tried one of the Cabelas Rod kits? Are they good for a first timer to start out on? Thanks for your feedback
Robert

Yes, I have built two Cabelas rods. You might want to invest in extra rod finish though....Cabelas gives you little packets that can be used, but I felt better having Flexcoat to make sure I had enough. Everything else you need is provided with the kit as well as detailed instruction on how to proceede.

Ralph

[boutdoors]

Thanks for the input I have my eye on a 2 wt in a Rainshadow Forecast RX6 Standard Fly-Rod Kits that I want to try.
Robert

[wilhelm]

The Cabela's kit is alright, but chosing the 2wt increases your difficulty a little. Comparing a 2wt to a 6 wt, everything about the 2 wt is smaller including its diameter. It becomes really noticable at the tip and will challenge the first time rod builder a little more than a heavier weight rod will. Doesn't make it impossible though and if you have patience and are careful, it will be fine.

wilhelm

[rdricks]

The Cabelas kits are a great way to start out. They will have all the components you need. They do not include any tools, but you really do not need much to build a rod.

I do agree with both posts above - you may want to purchase some extra packets of finish and epoxy, and it is easier to start on a larger rod (5 or 6 weight blanks are not too bad to work with). If you are set on the smaller rod, go for it. Just take your time and it will turn out fine.

[fishhead]

I built the forcast 6'-6" 2 wt 4 piece as my second build, the degree of difficulty was much greater than the 5 weight I built first, having said that both rods turned out great for a rookie. I have had many compliments on both. I do not think I would have tackled the small rod as soon into the learning curve if the first one hadn't turned out as well as it did.
Fishhead

p.s. waiting on dark days of winter to build a couple more.

[mundele]

Thinking about one of these Cabelas kits... Are the rod blanks the dark blue "Forecast" blanks from Batson?

[mike_p]

My first build was a 6' 2/3 wt complete Tiger Eye kit that I got on a super sale for $20 to "learn on". It turned out just fine, not perfect, but definitely serviceable. I built at least a dozen rods before building on anything longer 7'. Make sure you file/grind and treat your guide feet to fit the blank, and you won't have any problems greater than you would experience with a longer rod.

The Cabelas's kits are the dark blue forecast blanks. Beware that although these 6' 6" blanks offer tremendous value for the money, they are not necessarily rated accurately if you plan on this being a small stream/ blue line rod. Most people prefer a 3 or even a 4 wt line on these rods in those types of situations. I have built 4 of these rods in both the 2 and 4 piece configurations, and I only know one person who prefers a 2 wt line.

I haven't compared prices on these kits/blanks in a while, but if you're interested in a complete kit you may also want to look at Hook and Hackle. They offer these same blanks in complete ready-to-build kits, as do many other rod building supply houses.

[mundele]

Thanks for the response! I'm looking at either the H&H or Cabelas Forecast 9' 4wt rod. I like a longer rod. I use a St Croix Avid and was wanting a rod that has a little slower action and it sounds like the Forecast blank might be a good option for me. What do you think?

[fishhead]

The IM6 forecast will have the medium action you are looking for, they are not fast. But if you have a laid back casting stroke you will be pleased.
fishhead