Well, I got my replacement blank today and epoxied up the handle. How is this for balance?
I still have 3 guides and to put wrap finish on, so it still might end up a little tip heavy, but should turn out to be a pretty good 9' jig rod for my first build.

I still have 3 guides and to put wrap finish on, so it still might end up a little tip heavy, but should turn out to be a pretty good 9' jig rod for my first build.