Hey Everyone,

Long time no talk !!  I got married exactly one year ago this Saturday and needless to say the rodbuilding slowed dramatically.  My wife also has 2 children, and 8 year old girl and a 9 year old boy so I not only got married but became a Dad as well !  It's been fantastic. 

But I just finished building my new rod room and am back in action.

My first build is going to be a gift to myself.  I want to build a classic looking trolling rod.  It is going to start with a wood butt section made of local Texas Mesquite.  Can someone tell me where I can find a nice trolling blank, rated somewhere between 50 and 80, that is NOT gloss black?  Looking for something in maybe a honey finish or something similar.  Any ideas?  I know the super seekers are kind of a funky color but they are pretty pricey.

Any help with be mucho appreciado !!

Talk to everyone soon, Take care, Jeff Shields
www.shieldski.com