Dear Flatlander:
Let's see now, a 9 foot rod and a big carp. You may want to consider a handle section behind the reel, for a two handed grip. Might come in handy...helpful even.
I get my corks from a wine making supplier to use for handles. This way a larger diameter handle can be had. Much more comfortable, especially on a heavy fly rod.
Some time back I did get a book through iner-library loan on fly fishing for carp, can't remember the title. Good stuff, and it works. Carp will take a fly, or anything else they want for that matter, and they don't like you. So tie good knots!
Please tell me, where do you get a Forcast blank? Woodbutcher