Mark E. Wallace wrote:
My father is retiring soon and moving from Houston to Durango. He
doesn't fish right now but has expressed an interest in taking some
lessons up there after the move.

As a retirement gift, our family is considering getting him a custom
built fly rod. Unfortunately, we know very little about the area and
the
tackle requirements.

What sort of specs should I have in mind for a good quality
beginner's
rod for that area?

You've been given good and prudent advice on the fly rod whatever
direction you choose. I'm partial myself to Tripper's recomendation but
that's just me.

My reason for posting is on the custom part. If you want a really
unique product, Tom Hargrove, the owner of T. Hargrove Fly Shop in St.
Louis does really amazing custom work and would be worth a phone call
once you decide what you want. 314-968-4223 or www.thargrove.com.