One last point, which I consider of considerable importance. If you want
to avoid two of the major problems most amateurs have, DONT USE EPOXY
FINISH either on your rod, or on your rod guide whippings.

The blanks don´t require any finish at all. ( I prefer matte blanks as
well, shiny rods scare fish). For the guide whippings, any good quality
matte varnish will be more than adequate, and is also easier to finsih.
Also a great deal easier to remove a guide and refinsh if it should
becone necessary at some later date.

Epoxy may SEEM to be more robust, but in fact the strength is in the
windings themselves. Any good spar varnish will last the lifetime of the
guides, and may also be reapploed at any time.

"Christmas trees" cathc fewer fish, as they glint and flash, especially
if you are fishing for wary back-country fish.

Anyway, good luck with whatever you choose to do.

TL
MC