Rod Rating Designations and Abbreviations

Farlow’s Lee Wulff Midge ~ 6’~ 2/1 (made that way) ~ 1 7/8oz. ~ 4/5wt. ~ EXC ~ This sweet little wand was built by Farlow’s of Aberdeen, Scotland and imported in the 1960s and 70s by Norm Thompson Outfitters, a privately owned catalog/mail order retailer based in Oregon and later in Massachusetts.  It features an attractive shade of light carmel impregnated "Armour Cane", blue whippings chrome stripper, snakes and tip tops and tight fitting blued N/S ferrules that give a nice pop when separated.  The business end of the butt section has a petite cigar grip with tapered nose married to a cork seat with thin knurled dual slide band hardware.  The rod comes with a Fenwick labeled green poplin bag and an unlabeled aluminum tube with blue pressure fit cap.  I found the brisk medium-fast action excels when roll casted in tight quarters and matches well with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-4/WF-5 .  Most rods from “across the pond” never really took a strong foot hold in the States… save for the Hardy Phantom, CC DeFrance and Marvel and those from Cliff Constable.  The Lee Wulff Midge was certainly a departure from that trend and became a very popular model for Norm Thompson Outfitters.  Although well used, it has plenty of life left and is nice find for the small stream enthusiast. $450

SOLD

A.J. Thramer “PHY Midge” ~ 6’3” ~ 2/2 ~ 2.33oz. ~ 4wt. ~ Serial No. F50 ~ As New ~ This sweet little rendition of the Paul Young Midge is part of Mr. Thramer’s Classic Taper Series of fine quality bamboo rods.  It features attractive flamed cane with 3 x 3 golden nodes, matched tips, gold silks, quality furnishings include a carbaloy stripper, chrome snakes and tip-tops, tight fitting blued N/S ferrules that give a satisfying pop when separated and a nicely executed varnish finish.  The business end of the butt section has a modified cigar grip that continues down to form the lightly mortised cork seat fitted with blued D/L’ing cap and ring hardware and HK station.  The rod comes with the original tan bag and metal tube with a black and silver label bearing the maker’s name, logo and rod info.  The crisp medium to medium-fast action is deadly close in with either a roll or traditional cast and offers tight loops when paired with a Cortland 444 WF-4.  I also really liked it with a DT-3.  This quality rod from the Eugene, OR region may have been fished a time or two, but remains in like new condition. $895

J. H. Becker Model 664 ~ 6.5' ~ 3/2 ~ 2.9 oz. ~ 4wt. ~ Serial No. 92 ~ As New ~ This quality-constructed light line classic was built in 2008 by Vermont’s Jim Becker. The taper is based on a “modern” version of the Orvis Rocky Mountain and features attractive blonde cane with 2 x 2 spiral nodes, matched tips, translucent tan silks (olive green at the HK, tip-tops, and ferrule stations), and a nicely-executed glass-smooth varnish finish. The rod is nicely appointed with a carboloy stripper, silver fine-wire snakes and tip-tops and tight-fitting truncated N/S ferrules that give a satisfying pop when separated. The business area of the butt section has a comfortable cigar grip with tapered nose, beautifully-figured spalted maple seat fitted with D/L'ing silver cap and ring hardware and rear grip check, wound over front WC and HK loop. The rod comes with a quality tan bag with grommeted leather hang tab and green pebble-finish aluminum tube brass cap, collar and end. The medium-fast action is well-suited for dry fly work close in but also has some punch to deliver the oft needed longer cast. It throws a nice loop with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-4 and will also easily handle a 5. It may have been fished a time or two, but remains in like new condition. New rods from Mr. Becker are now priced into 4-figures. You can add this superb rod to your quiver for… $895 $825

Orvis Kit ~ 6.5' ~ 2/2 ~ 2.36 oz. 4/5wt. ~ EXC ~ This sweet casting little wand was nicely crafted on a set of Orvis blanks (not sure by who did the work), possibly based on an Orvis Flea or Superfine taper.  It features richly impregnated cane, brown silks, oxidized mildrum stripper, hardened steel snakes and tip tops, and smooth fitting blued N/S ferrules that give a nice pop.  The business end of the butt section has the Orvis Superfine cork grip that continues down to form the cork seat fitted with thinly knurled dual slide bands, wound over WC and metal butt cap end.  The rod comes with a sturdy bag and metal tube with an Orvis label.  The crisp medium-fast action is well suited for dry fly work at close range but the rod also has some reserve power to reach out when called upon.  I really liked it with a Cortland 444 Peach WF-4.  This is a nicely appointed small stream rod that will be right at home on your favorite small stream or ‘crick. $395

Art Weiler “Garrison 193” ~ 6’9” ~ 2/2 ~ 3.1 oz.~ 3wt. ~ Serial No. 1105 ~ NEW (exception noted) ~ The bamboo rod community lost a fine rod maker in Art Weiler this past August.  I’ve had the pleasure of selling several of his quality-built offerings from his Bound Brook, NJ and Kunkletown, PA shops.  This neat little rendition of the G 193 comes from the late Mr. Weiler’s Kunkletown, PA shop and features an attractive shade of blonde, translucent pongee (tan) silks with brown silks at the HK and ferrule stations, quality furnishings including a black stripper, black snakes and tip tops, smooth and tight fitting N/S ferrules that give a solid pop when separated and a nicely executed varnish finish.  The tip sections can be differentiated by a turn of ruby red silk at one tip top guide and forest green silk at the other tip top guide.  The business end of the butt section was completed much in the Garrison tradition and has a comfortable torpedo grip that continues down to form the cork and hardwood combo seat with D/L’ing slide band hardware and HK station.  The butt cap is loose and can easily be reset. The rod comes with the original tan bag and heavy gauge metal tube with brass end cap and collar and maker’s label with rod info.  The crisp medium-fast action is well suited for roll casts and close in dry fly work and throws a tight loop when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-3 and WF-4. These quality-made classics retailed north of a Grand.  Get this one, brand new and with plenty of room to reset the butt cap, for… $795

A.J. Thramer Signature Hollowbuilt ~ 7’~ 2/2 ~ 3.35oz. ~ 4wt. ~ Serial No. S0811 ~ EXC+/As New ~ This high quality rod comes from Mr. Thramer’s Signature Hollowbuilt Series and features attractive light honey-tone cane with 3 x 3 golden nodes, matched tips, brown silks tipped gold, quality furnishings include a an agate stripper housed in a black nickel frame, black snakes and tip-tops, smooth and tight fitting blued N/S ferrules that give a satisfying pop when separated and a glass smooth varnish finish.  The business end of the butt section has a comfortable modified Wells grip, cork seat beautifully figured tiger maple seat with blued D/L’ing cap and ring hardware petite blued grip checks and folding ring HK.  The rod comes with the original bag with hang tag and quality metal tube with bronze end, cap and collar and is finished with the maker’s black and silver label that includes rod info.  The responsive medium-fast action is well suited to dry fly work and throws a sweet loop when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-4. The rod may have been fished a few times, but remains in like new condition.  Hurry on this one. It could easily be your new “got to” rod. Superb! $895

SOLD

Cunningham No. 115 ~ 7.5’ ~ 2/2 ~ 4.27 oz. ~ 4wt. ~ Serial No. 1301 ~ AS New (exception noted) ~ If you have not have the pleasure of seeing or casting ones of Rick’s rods, you are in for a real treat!  His finish and wrap work is among the best in the business and his skill as a craftsman, honed in part under the watchful eye of the late DJ Duck, is simply top notch.  This sweet casting rod features attractive light carmel-colored cane, matched tips, translucent burgundy silks tipped black and an expertly executed varnish finish.  Fine furnishings include a brown agate stripper housed in a black nickel frame, black snakes and tip-tops and smooth and tight fitting blued N/S ferrules that give a satisfying pop when separated.  The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable cigar grip, beautifully figured dark maple burl mortised seat complimented with black D/L’ing cap and ring hardware with upgraded engraved knurling, petite black WC and folding ring HK.  The butt cap is loose on seat and needs to be re-installed.  The rod comes with a tan soft cloth bag with makers label sewn in to the top and black powder coated metal tube with brass end cap and collar and makers label.  The rod appears to have seen very limited, if any, use and remains near new in appearance.  It has brisk medium-fast action and exhibits a nice blend of power and delicacy that is well-suited to dry fly work.  I liked it with a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-4.  It will also handle a 5 nicely.  This is a superb rod from a well-respected Texas maker that would be a welcomed addition to your quiver. $795 $725

East Prong Rods “Orvis Equinox” ~ 7.5’ ~ 2/2 ~ 3.65 oz.~ 4/5wt. ~ NEW ~ Check out this well-appointed rod built by Knoxville’s Rich Margiotta on a set of Dennis Stone blanks.  The taper used for rod was taken from a 1942 varnished Orvis Equinox.  Early Wes Jordan-era varnished rods were known to have a more pronounced dry fly action than their younger impregnated cousins.  It features attractive light honey tone cane with 2 around spiral nodes, matched tips, old gold silks tipped red, NOS Allan carbide stripper, light wire gunsmoke finish snakes, smooth and tight-fitting blued N/S ferrules give a satisfying pop when separated and a nicely executed varnish finish.  The business end of the butt section has a comfortable extra flora grade cigar grip with tapered nose, nicely toned cherry seat with D/L’ing N/S cap and ring hardware, petite N/S grip checks and HK station.  It comes with a quality pale olive bag with hang tag and metal tube with gold cap, collar and end. The comfortable medium to medium-fast action throws a tight loop, for me best with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-4/WF-5 and is well-suited for dry fly work. The builder notes that he liked the rod with 406 DT-4 and DT-5, and he preferred the 5.  This is another in a long line of fine and affordable offerings from Rich and is super find for the dry fly enthusiast. $575

Green River 765 ~ 7.5’ ~ 3/2 ~ 4.13 oz. ~ 5wt. ~ Serial No. 6322 ~ EXC+ ~ This quality one-owner offering from the Brattleboro, VT shop of Robert Gorman is a delight to cast and comes in the highly desirable 3/2 format.  It features an attractive shade of dark honey-toned cane with a dramatically swelled butt, 3 x 3 golden nodes, matched tips, forest green silks tipped black, quality furnishings including a matte black mildrum-style stripper, bronze H&H snakes blued tip-tops, and tight fitting truncated N/S blued ferrules that give a solid pop when separated, and an expertly-executed proprietary impregnated varnish and resin finish that is virtually maintenance free.  The business end of the butt section is fitted with a modified cigar grip with tapered nose and lightly flared palm, beautifully figured maple burl mortised seat with D/L’ing blued N/S “wedding band” and ring hardware, petite blued N/S WC and a folding ring HK.  For tip differentiation purposes, a single turn of black silk is present just below the tip–top guide of Tip #1 and two turns of black silk are present just below the tip–top guide of Tip #2.  The original owner’s name is inked on the butt section.  The rod comes with the original tan bag with stiffener and original black wrinkle-finish aluminum tube bearing the Green River logo.  This sweet casting wand has a crisp medium-fast action that is well-suited for dry fly work, and has an abundancy of reserve power to reach out when needed.  I found that it really sings when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-5.  Gorman rods are superbly-made and becoming increasingly harder to acquire. $1,250

Steve Kiley Model 7645L ~ 7.5' ~ 2/2 ~ 4.2 oz. ~ 4/5wt. Serial No. 06053 ~ EXC+ ~ In 2016, the bamboo rod community lost a friend and fine rod maker in Stephen Kiley.  He began making bamboo fly rods around 1975 and crafted upwards of 300 rods, also making blanks for Orvis. I’ll always cherish the phone conversations we had, mostly about his creative taper and prototype ideas.  The proprietary taper for this Kiley classic was derived, in part, from a Leonard 39.  It features attractive blonde cane with 3 around nodes, matched tips, ruby red silks tipped black with four thin black signature wraps, watermelon agatine stripper housed in a N/S frame, bronze H&H snakes and tip-tops, smooth and tight fitting N/S ferrules that give a satisfying pop when separated, and Steve’s expertly executed glass smooth varnish finish.  The business end of the butt section has a modified wells grip with lightly flared palm and tapered nose, beautiful figured ambonia burl seat with U/L’ing N/S screw and slide hood hardware and petite N/S WC.  The rod comes with the original tan soft cloth bag and black metal tube with brass end, cap and collar.  This rod has a sweet medium-fast action that is well suited for dry fly work and throws an effortless loop when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-4/WF-5 while giving the utmost respect for fine tippet. This is a superbly crafted rod that will surely please. $895 $825

J.S. Sharpe LTD Scottie “The Featherweight” ~ 7.5’ ~ 2/2 ~ 3.7oz. ~ 5/6wt. ~ EXC+/As New ~ J.S. Sharpe LTD was founded over 70 years ago by John Shepherd Sharpe of Aberdeen, Scotland.  The "Scottie" rod was first acclaimed at the Milan Exhibition of 1933 where Sharpe was awarded the Gold medal and Diploma. The "Scottie" trademark is still internationally recognized for top quality impregnated Bamboo rods.  Sharpe pioneered the process for impregnating the fibers of the built cane blank to repel water using procedures followed to impregnate the airframe of early aircraft.  These techniques were further improved upon by Harold Sharpe, when he took over the business in 1946.  Today, the company’s unique impregnation process involves the immersion of the blank in a bath of specially prepared resins for a period of weeks until the fibers are properly saturated.  The impregnated blank is then "cured" by baking the blank in an oven at a controlled temperature which fixes the resins in the cane fibers making them waterproof.  This rod features attractive richly-hued impregnated cane with 3 around golden nodes, burgundy silks, chrome stripper, chrome reverse-twist snakes, chrome tip-tops, and blued ferrules (with wood ferrule plug), each stamped with an “A”, fit smooth and tight and give a nice pop when separated.  In typical English tradition, the tip sections are 3/16” shorter than the butt (made that way).  The business end of the butt section has a comfortable cigar grip married to a cork seat with knurled D/L’ing cap and ring hardware, exposed WC and HK station.  J.S. Sharpe LTD Aberdeen is stamped into the side of the butt cap and the numbers 219 and 12 are stamped into the bottom of the butt cap.  The rod comes with the original J.S. Sharpe labeled bag with hang tag and an unlabeled aluminum tube.  This rod has a wonderful medium-fast action that is well suited to dry fly work and has plenty of reserve to punch out longer casts as needed.  It will easily handle a 6, but really sang for me when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-5.  Bamboo rods from “across the pond” never really took a strong foot hold in the States, save for those named Phantom, CC DeFrance, Marvel, or those crafted by Cliff Constable, but this one will certainly give pause to that trend.  It may have been fished a time or two, but remains in like new condition and is one of the nicest Sharpe Scotties I’ve had the privilege to handle. Superb! $695

South Bend No. 290 ~ 7.5' ~ 2/2 ~ 4.02oz. ~ 5/6wt. ~ EXC ~ The No. 290 and No. 1500 are widely regarded as South Bend’s best casting and most desirable rods.  This post WW-II classic features attractive medium blonde cane, orange/Black jasper silks, Mildrum stripper, hardened steel snakes and tip-tops and smooth, easy working plated ferrules that give a nice pop when separated, and a nice varnish finish.  One tip section is an 1/8" longer and 0.07oz. heavier than the other tip section.  The guide wrap pattern and spacing on the two tip sections differ slightly.  These types of inconsistencies were not uncommon with SB rods. The business end of the butt section is fitted with SB’s Comficient grip with gold foil label 100% intact inside the recessed thumb, burgundy "Lite-Lock" U/L'ing seat, exposed WC and folding ring HK.  Both acetate labels are 100% intact on the butt section.  The rod comes with the original labeled bag and labeled red fiber tube.  The rod has a strong medium-fast action that is well-suited to dry fly work and throws a nice loop with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-5 (lighter tip) and WF-6 (heavier tip).  This is a nice example of a classic Midwestern production rod and a super find for the South Bend aficionado. $275

A.J. Thramer “Granger Aristocrat” ~ 7.5’~ 3/2 ~ 5.22oz. ~ 5wt. ~ Serial No. A22 ~ EXC+ ~ This sweet rendition of the Granger Aristocrat Model 7633 from Mr. Thramer’s Classic Taper Series of fine bamboo rods features attractive flamed cane with 3 x 3 golden nodes, matched tips, light brown silks with a turn of dark brown at the HK, ferrule stations and tip tops, quality furnishings include a chrome guides, tight fitting N/S ferrules that give a satisfying pop when separated and a nicely executed varnish finish.  The business end of the butt section has a comfortable modified cigar grip with tapered nose and lightly flared palm, metal seat with U/L’ing screw and slide band hardware and petite N/S WC.  The rod comes with the original green bag and metal tube with a black and silver label bearing the maker’s name, logo and rod info.  The rod has a smooth medium action reminiscent of a 7633 formerly located in my quiver and throws a tight loop when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-5.  This quality rod was proudly made in the USA and priced for a quick sale in hopes that it will find its way back on the water soon. $825 $750

T.L. Zietak 206 ~ 7.5’ ~ 2/2 ~ 3.46oz. ~ 4wt. ~ As New (exception noted) ~ This custom made rendition of the popular 7.5' version of the Garrison 206 from the bench of Pittsburgh's Tim Zietak was reported to be one of Mr. Zietak’s personal rods that he recently cleaned up and applied a fresh coat of varnish.  It features carmel-colored cane with some inconsistent glue lines, spiral nodes spacing configured in the firing order of a six cylinder engine, translucent tan silks (chocolate brown at the WC and ferrule stations) that are almost clear in appearance, chrome guides, smooth and tight fitting N/S ferrules that give a solid pop when separated, and a nicely executed new varnish finish.   The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable Garrison style grip, nicely figured hardwood/cork seat with silver D/L’ing cap and ring hardware and wound over WC.  The rod comes with a tan bag and metal tube.  The relaxed medium-fast action throws a sweet loop that was best for me when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-4.  I’m not sure this rod has seen the water since it was re-varnished. $695 $525

High Plains Rods ~ 7’9” ~ 2/2 ~ 4.3oz. ~ 5wt. ~ As New ~ Check out this sweet offering from Colorado Springs Randy Schneider.  Mr. Schneider proudly served his country for 24 years as a musician and instrument repairman in the United States Air Force.  His many years of fly fishing and experience with repairing instruments have led him to his new passion….custom crafting bamboo fly rods.  You’ll immediately notice the attention to detail when you see the rod bag and tube.  This heirloom quality rod features attractive lightly flamed cane with 3 around golden nodes, matched tips, brown silks tipped black, amber agate stripper housed in a smoked nickel frame, bronze light wire snakes and tip tops, smooth and tight-fitting blued N/S ferrules (with ferrule plug) that give a satisfying pop when separated, and a nicely-executed mirror-like varnish finish.  The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable cigar grip with tapered nose, beautifully figured hardwood seat with D/L’ing blued N/S cap and ring hardware and petite blued N/S WC.  The rod comes with a soft bushed cotton rustic brown bag with makers label neatly attached near the top and aluminum tube with makers logo and rod information.  The rod bag has 2 gold silk ties, each equipped with magnetic closures that double as a ferrule plug holder while the rod is in use.   The responsive medium-fast action throws a tight loop, for me best when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-5 and would be an excellent choice for dry fly work.  This finely-tuned rod has been lawn casted and fished a time or two and would make a nice addition to anyone’s quiver. $1,650 $1,395

T.L. Zietak 209e ~ 7’9” ~ 2/2 ~ 4.44oz. ~ 5wt. ~ As New (exception noted) ~ This custom made rendition of the popular Garrison 209e from the bench of Pittsburgh's Tim Zietak was reported to be one of Mr. Zietak’s personal rods that he recently cleaned up and applied a fresh coat of varnish.  It features carmel-colored cane with some inconsistent glue lines, spiral nodes spacing configured in the firing order of a six cylinder engine, translucent tan silks (chocolate brown at the WC and ferrule stations) that are almost clear in appearance, chrome guides, smooth and tight fitting N/S ferrules that give a solid pop when separated, and a nicely executed new varnish finish.   The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable Garrison style grip, nicely figured hardwood/cork seat with silver D/L’ing cap and ring hardware and wound over WC.  The rod comes with a tan bag and metal tube.  The sweet medium-fast action throws a tight loop that was best for me when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-5.  I’m not sure this rod has seen the water since it was re-varnished. $695 $525

Brack Hill Tackle “Mainstream” ~ 8’ ~ 2/2 ~ 6.17oz. ~ 7wt. ~ Serial No. 314105 ~ As New ~ This quality-constructed wand from the late Lou Burhart was built on of his proprietary tapers. Mr. Burhart was an Engineer for Chrysler that began building rods in the late 1990s under the part time tutelage of Casnovia, Michigan’s Wayne Cattanach. He continued to build rods in his Monroe, Michigan shop under the name Brack Hill Tackle into the 2010s and sadly passed away in 2015. The rod features attractive flamed cane with 2 x 2 spiral nodes, matched tips, black ang gold variegated silks tipped black, agate stripper housed in a bronze frame, chrome snakes and tip-tops, tight-fitting N/S ferrules (with ferule plug) that give a satisfying pop when separated and a nicely-executed glass-smooth varnish finish. The ferule fit is very tight and tough to seat 100%. The business area of the butt section has a comfortable full wells grip and beautifully figured curly maple seat fitted with U/L'ing screw and slide hood hardware, fighting butt with composite end and silver butt cap pine that bear the company initials. The rod comes with a quality cream colored bag with maker’s name and company logo stitched into the top and black pebble-finish aluminum tube with breathable gold cap and collar and soft rod tube case. The tube label bears the owner’s name and Ann Arbor Trout Unlimited. The stiff taper and fast action likes an 8, though the owner indicated that he fished the rod once with a 7. This finely-tuned rod in as new condition is a real head turner and would be a nice companion on your next trip for large trout, jacks, Atlantic Salmon, bucketmouths or for any large quarry. $595 $495

H & D Folsom Arms No. 1510 ~ 8' ~ 3/2 ~ 1 3/4F ~4.09 oz. ~ 5wt. ~ EXC RS ~ This c. 1940 classic from the famed New York sporting goods retailer was made by Heddon and according to Michael Sinclair’s fine book “HEDDON The Rod With The Fighting Heart” the equivalent to the Heddon #10. It features attractive browntone cane with swelled butt, red silks tipped black, smoked mildrum stripper, black snakes, perfection-style tip-tops, smooth and tight fitting rolled welt N/S ferrules that give a nice pop when separated and a nicely executed new varnish finish.  The business end of the butt section has a cigar grip that has been light varnished over, cedar barrel seat with silver D/L'ing cap & ring hardware and exposed WC.  The rod comes with a new tan bag from the Stone Rod Co. (could Dennis Stone possibly have done the restoration?) and what appears to be the original unlabeled metal tube.  The rod has a comfortable medium-fast action that is perfect for dry fly work and throws a sweet WF/DT 5 line.  Classic 8’ Heddons just don’t come along that often and are fine fishing rods. Hurry on this one. $495

SOLD

Asbjorn Horgard “Thompson K 21” ~ 8’ ~ 2/1 ~ 4.52oz. ~ 5/6 wt. SN 110436 ~ EXC (exception noted) ~ Asbjorn Horgard reportedly built his first rod in 1934 and by the start of WW-II, was the proprietor of a successful business making and selling rods and reels.  In 1944, he accused of being associated with an underground group and imprisoned by the German war machine.  He picked up where he left off after the war and continued handcrafting bamboo rods and reels through the 1970s and reportedly began building fiberglass thereafter.  This Norwegian-made classic features attractive medium blonde cane with 3 x 3 nodes, green silks, agate stripper housed in a N/S frame that is slighted titled forward (does not affect line follow or performance), chrome guides, smooth working brass ferrules that give a soft pop when separated and a nicely executed varnish finish.  A faint ferrule tick can be felt indicating a reset may soon be needed.  The business end of thebutt section has a perfection grip that tapers down to form the cork seat fitted with black D/L’ing slide band hardware with black butt cap and petite HK station.  The rod comes with the original labeled burgundy bag and metal tube.  The comfortable medium to medium-fast action throws a tight loop when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-5/WF-6 line.  It should cover most trout fishing scenarios from nymphs to streamers to dries.  This historically significant classic from Trondheim, Norway is a super find and has plenty of life left… and the price ain’t bad either! $250

McKellip P102 ~ 8' ~ 2/2 ~ 4.4oz. ~ 5wt. ~ EXC+ ~ This finely-tuned rod from the bench of Michigan’s McKellip Brothers is based on the famous Payne 102 taper.  One immediately notices the attention to detail soon as the rod is removed from its handsome antique olive tube.  It features select heat-treated tonkin cane with an attractive light carmel hue, matched tips, 2 x 2 golden nodes, brown silks with a tun of forest green at the WC and nicely-executed glass smooth varnish finish.  The quality furnishings include a smoke black stripper, black snakes and tip tops and smooth and tight fitting blued NS ferrules (with ferrule plug) that give a resounding pop when separated.  The business end of the butt section is fitted with comfortable modified wells grip perfectly married to a nicely figured black walnut seat with blued N/S D/L’ing cap ring hardware.  The side of the butt cap is tastefully engraved with the maker’s logo.  A petite blued WC completes the grip area.  The rod comes with a quality stitched heavy felt bag with the maker’s stitched in tab and antique olive labeled tube with the makers logo engraved into the top of the heavy gauge brass tube cap.  The comfortable action is just a touch on the fast side of medium and is well-suited to dry fly work when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-5.  This superb and well cared for rod has seen light use and will surely please. $995

Orvis 99 ~ 8' ~ 2/2 ~ 4.3 oz. (Tip #1)/4.37oz (Tip #2) ~ Serial No. 28217 ~ 5wt.~ EXC ~ This Orvis classic was made in 1960 by two of Orvis’ best (Calvin Skinner & George Reid) to commemorate Orvis’ 99th year of operation.  The “99” was typically sold in the 2/1 format and this one comes with an Orvis-made bonus tip added at some point afterward.  It features richly hued impregnated cane, burgundy silks (the bonus tip is wrapped red silk), black guides (the bonus tip has chrome guides) and smooth and tight fitting blued N/S Super -Z- stamped ferrules that give a satisfying pop when separated.  The Super Z was designed circa 1948 by Louis Feierabend who spent time on Nat Uslan’s small Spring Valley, NY staff of talented craftsmen.  The business end of the butt section has a comfortable cigar grip, screw D/L'ing seat with walnut spacer, exposed blued WC and HK station. The rod comes with an Orvis-issue bag and metal tube with no top cap and red plastic end cap (a white plastic top cap will be included).  The smooth and forgiving action is just a touch on the fast side of medium and throws a tight loop, for me best with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-5/WF-6.  This multi-use Orvis classic with a bonus 2nd tip is a super value. $495

Orvis Battenkill ~ 8’ ~ 2/2 ~ 4 3/8 oz. ~ HDH ~ Serial No. 16750 ~ EXC+ ~ Many Orvis enthusiasts believe that the best Orvis rods were produced during the 1950s and 60s.  This 1955 offering was built by two of Orvis’ best, Cal Skinner and George Reid, and features richly-hued impregnated cane, Orvis brown silks, 3 x 3 nodes, and fine Orvis furnishings including an oxidized mildrum stripper, hardened steel snakes and tip tops, and tight fitting blued N/S ferrules that give a satisfying pop when separated.  The business end of the butt section has a comfortable cigar grip, screw D/L’ing aluminum seat with a walnut spacer, exposed WC and HK station.  The rod comes with an olive bag and metal tube with original Orvis paper label that includes rod info and is 85% intact.  The accommodating medium action throws a sweet loop, for me best when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-5/WF-6.  This quality-made, classic should cover most trout fishing situations whether that be nymphing, dry fly work, dry/dropper rigs and/or tossing hoppers, streamers, and buggers.  This 1950-era classic with low mileage is a super find for the Orvis enthusiast. $695

Orvis Madison ~ 8' ~ 2/1 (made that way) ~ 4 3/8oz ~ GBF (8) Serial No. 70515 ~ EXC ~ This classic from the famous VT based purveyor of fine tackle was built in 1973 during the Ron White era and features rich impregnated cane, Orvis brown silks, Orvis issue stripper, snakes and tip top and smooth and tight fitting blued N/S ferrules that give a solid pop when separated.  The business end of the butt section has a comfortable cigar grip, D/L'ing screw and slide hood seat with walnut spacer, exposed WC and HK station.  It comes with a brown bag and original metal tube with green/silver Orvis label that includes rod info.  Although rated by Orvis for a WF-8, I much preferred the comfortable medium action when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-6.  This classic is another excellent example of Orvis’ work from this era. It will be difficult to find a better-quality rod at this price. $425

Rick Robbins “The Main Stem+” ~ 8’ ~ 3/2 ~ 4.97oz. ~ 6wt. Serial No. 904 ~ EXC+ (exception noted) ~ This fine offering from Lexington, VA’s Rick Robbins comes from his Main Stem series which are described by the maker as ”powerful fast rods designed to form the backbone of a bamboo rod collection… Reminiscent of the Wes Jordon eight-footer, the Leonard 50DF and Payne’s famous model 202. Selection of a rod from this series would be the place to start for an all around rod.” More from Mr. Robbins: “The tapers are designed and built at three-inch increments. This adopts the traditional format of classic, professional Catskill builders and results in more rod precision than those built at 5” measurements. The bamboo used is of the finest available and the cull for best of the best is extensive. All nodes are pressed to retain the maximum amount of power fibers and placed in 3x3 node staggering. All of the cane is precisely heat treated so as to harden and strengthen the strips. This also affects a slight color change to a honey tan. Each rod comes with twin sister tips built from the same cane with the nodes identically placed. This assures each tip will perform identically. The tapers are formed using a milling machine that was built in 1925 for a well-known old production shop. It weighs about a ton; is also bolted to the cement floor and holds amazing tolerances. The ferrules and reel seat hardware are crafted from scratch in our Lexington shop. All are made from 18% nickel silver. This tubing is precisely drawn in America by an American company that has served Catskill makers for many decades. The reel seat spacers are crafted from a variety of hardwoods with an extensive use of burls. They feature a mortice for the reel tang and a nickel silver inlay on the opposing side. This inlay, while decorative, also tends to keep the sliding ring band from digging into the reel seat wood over time. The rods are wrapped and tipped in silk thread and finished in high-end true spar varnish.”. Mr. Robbins has over four decades of bamboo rod building experience and the influence of his mentor and friend, Tom Maxwell, is immediately evident when the rod is removed from its tube. This one features attractive heat-treated blonde cane with dramatically swelled butt, 3 x 3 pressed nodes, book-matched tips, translucent old gold silks tipped red, bronze stripper and guides, smooth and tight fitting hand-made N/S ferrules that give a satisfying pop when separated, and an expertly executed varnish finish. The butt section was replaced due to an unfortunate rod vs drift boat accidental breakage incident. The replacement that was done by Mr. Robbins, has a couple uneven glue lines in the swell near the grip. A letter of provenance from Mr. Robbins describing the work that was done and also includes a black & white copy of a picture of the broken original butt section comes with the rod. The business end of the butt section has a comfortable cigar grip, beautifully figured tiger maple seat with D/L’ing silver cap & ring hardware, petite N/S WC and folding ring HK. The maker’s logo is stamped into the bottom of the butt cap. The reel seat also features a mortice for the reel tang and a decorative nickel silver inlay on the opposing side that facilitates ring slide and helps to keep the ring band from digging into the reel seat wood. The rod comes with the original quality-made tan bag and heavy gauge metal tube with brass bottom, cap and collar that includes the maker’s label with rod info and a protective brown rod tube bag. The pleasant medium fast action throws effortlessly, for me best with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-6. It would be well-suited for action on the likes of Michigan’s Pere Marquette and Manistee Rivers, Montana’s Big Horn and Missouri Rivers or Idaho’s Henrys Fork River, just to name a few. Retail on a three piece Robbins rod is $2,750. Get this one, with very low mileage, for… $1,525

T.W. Simroe Model 2805 ~ 8' ~ 3/2 ~ 4.4oz. ~ 5wt. ~ Serial No. 689 ~ EXC ~ Ted Simroe headed up the H.L. Leonard Rod Company from late 1960s to the late 1970s and continued making fine quality rods after his time at Leonard ended.  This neat rendition of the Leonard 50 DF features attractive medium blonde cane with 3 around nodes, old gold silks tipped black, chrome mildrum-style stripper, chrome snakes and tip-tops, smooth and tight-fitting N/S ferrules that give a satisfying pop when separated, and a nicely executed varnish finish.  The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable light reversed wells grip, nicely figured teak seat with silver U/L'ing screw and slide hood hardware, petite N/S WC, and folding ring HK.  The rod comes with a study tan bag and black wrinkle finish metal tube with silver end, cap and collar.  The sweet medium to medium-fast action is well-suited for dry fly work, dry and dropper rigs, and terrestrials and for me, delivers a tight loop with a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-5.  This finely tuned wand, steeped in Leonard tradition, would be right at home in the east on the Delaware, in the mid-west on the Manistee and Pere Marquette, and/or out West on the Big-Horn, Henrys Fork or Missouri. $1,195 $995

D.R. Stone Hollowbuilt ‘D. Rickards Special’ ~ 8’ ~ 2/2 ~ 3.9 oz. (on tube label) / 4.8 oz. (on my digital scale) ~ 5/6wt. ~ Serial No. 2405 ~ EXC ~ Dennis Stone has been involved in building or repairing bamboo rods for the past several decades, a craft learned in part under the tutelage of Dwight Lyons and Darryl Whitehead.  This McMinnville, Oregon offering features light honey tone cane, forest green red silks, open turns of red intermediates, oxidized mildrum-type stripper, bronze H&H snakes, oxidized tip-tops, tight-fitting blued N/S ferrules that give a nice pop when separated, and spar varnish finish that has some inconsistencies and dust particles.  The business end of the butt section has a comfortable light wells grip, walnut seat fitted with blued D/L'ing screw and slide hood hardware and petite WC.  The rod comes with a light soft cloth bag with company name sewn in towards the top and a heavy gauge metal tube with brass hexagonal cap and end cap completed with the maker’s label that bears rod info.  Further description present on the tube label indicates it is a Trophy Trout Stillwater rod.  The smooth medium-fast  action is well suited for dry fly work and throws a tight loop when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-5.  This was obviously someone’s “go to” rod and is being offered at an attractive price in the hopes that it will find similar use by a new owner. $495

FE Thomas Browntone Dry Fly ~ 8’~ 3/2 ~ 4.09oz. ~ 5wt. ~ Serial No. 33 ~ EXC+ RS (exception noted) ~ The FE Thomas Company built rods from turn of the 20th Century up to c. 1958-59.  During their early years, and up through 1936, the rods were numbered with a die stamp on the bottom of the butt cap, usually starting with the number 1 and continuing until the end of that calendar year and then repeated again the following year beginning with number 1.  At some point in the mid to late 1930s (some believe 1936-37), the FET Co. modified the die stamp to include both symbols and numbers.  This old world classic was nicely restored in 2012 (do not know who did the work) and features a attractive browntone cane with lightly swelled butt, brown silks with finely spaced signature wraps, red agate stripper housed in blude nickel frame, hardened steel snakes and tip tops, blued NS ferules fit smooth and tight and a nicely executed glass smooth new varnish finish.  I tip is down 1 ¾”.  The business end of the butt section has a cigar grip with tapered nose, walnut seat with blued D/L'ing cap and ring hardware (some of the bluing is worn), blued but cap with maker’s stamp on the side and the serial number stamping on the bottom and the hallmark FET petite blued WC with attached folding ring HK.  The rod comes with the original factory-sewn tan bag with hang tag and original FET labeled metal tube with brass end, cap and collar.  The sweet medium action (the action with the short tip is a bit quicker), for me best with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-5, is a joy to cast.  What a thrill it would be to fool a trout with this nearly century-old classic from this prominent New England maker! $1,095 $895

Weymouth Rod Works Model H805DF ~ 8’ ~ 3/2 ~ 4.06oz. ~ 4wt. Serial No. 2302 ~ As New (exception noted) ~ This 1-owner rod from the bench of Manitowoc, Wisconsin’s Ken Wemouth was custom built in 2022 on a Payne 200 taper.  If features attractive medium blonde cane with 3 around nodes, translucent tan silks with brown accents at the WC, black nickel stripper, snakes and tip tops, smooth working blued N/S ferrules that give a nice pop when separated and a nicely executed glass smooth varnish finish.  The female ferrule on the mid-section is coming loose on its station and should be reset.  The business end of the butt section has a comfortable, light cigar grip, beautifully figured tiger maple seat fitted with blued N/S D/L’ing slide band hardware and petite blued WC. The rod comes with a quality made gray bag with company name neatly stitched into the top of the butt section compartment and black powder coated metal tube with brass end, cape and collar and company label.  The sweet medium to medium-fast action throws tight loops when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-4 and exhibits a nice blend of power and delicacy that would perfect on venues where long casts and stealthy presentations are prerequisite to success.  This superb rod is being offered with room for a ferrule reset. $1,295 $850

PHY Parabolic 15 ~ 8’ ~ 2/2 ~ 4.66oz. ~ 5wt. ~ Serial No. 2256 ~ EXC (exception noted) ~ This Detroit-made classic from the Paul H. Young Co was completed on April 6, 1957 for Bill Miller of Chicago and features attractive flamed cane, light brown silks, black mildrum-style stripper, black snakes and tip tops, smooth & tight fitting oxidized Super -Z- stamped N/S ferrules that give a strong pop when separated and a nicely executed varnish finish.  According to PHY expert historian Mr. Robert Golder, shop records indicate that both tips are wet parabolic tips.  I noted some surface marks and a few light bag marks in the varnish from nearly three-quarters of a century of use that can be rubbed out if desired.  A delam located on one tip between the last snake guide and tip-top guide was repaired and protected with clear silk wraps by Michigan native Tom Sherman.  The repair was very nicely done and blends in perfectly with the surrounding cane.  Accordingly, the rod is being offered at a 1-tip price.  The business end of the butt section has a comfortable cigar grip screw D/L’ing metal seat and a HK loop.  This seat and hardware, sans PHY stampings, is a departure from the typical seats found on the Para 15.  After consultation with the aforementioned Mr. Golder, there was a time when PHY used this seat, typically during the depression. This rod was not made during that time period, so it is unknown whether it was made that way in the ship or possibly by client request. The writing on the rod appears to be in PHY’s hand.  The rod comes with the original poplin satin bag (small hole at the bottom of butt section compartment) and Champion-style metal tube that is also most likely original.  This fine casting instrument has a medium-fast parabolic action that throws a smooth and tight loop with minimal effort.  This model was typically rated for a DT-6 silk line, but it was best for me when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-5/WF-6.  This historically significant classic from the famous Michigan maker is a valued piece of Americana and a super find for the PHY enthusiast. $1,795

R.A. Fick “The Trask” ~ 8.5' ~ 2/2 ~ 5.4oz. ~ 6wt. Serial No. 1-148. ~ As New ~ In 2016, the bamboo rod community lost a fine rod maker in Rick Fick.  I’ve had the pleasure of selling a few of his rods, all high-quality offerings, made in his Decatur, IN shop.  This classic features attractive honey toned cane with 3 around golden nodes, matched tips, variegated brown/black silks tipped black, watermelon mildrum-style stripper, black snakes and tip-tops, smooth and tight fitting N/S ferrules that give a satisfying pop when separated, and an expertly executed glass smooth varnish finish.  The business end of the butt section has a cigar grip with tapered nose, beautiful figured hardwood burl seat with D/L’ing screw and slide hood hardware and HK station.  The rod comes with the original olive soft cloth bag and black powder coated metal tube with brass cap and collar.  This rod has a sweet medium-fast action that is well suited for long-cast dry fly work and throws an effortless loop when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-6.  This is a superbly crafted rod in like new condition would be an excellent choice for the Missouri, Henry’s Fork, Big Horn and/or Yellowstone. $795

Heddon #20 Bill Stanley’s Favorite ~ 8.5' ~ 3/2 ~ 2 1/2F ~ 4 ¾ oz. (on tag)/5 7/8 oz on my digital scale ~ HCH or D (DT-7) ~ EXC (excpetions noted) ~ This c. 1950 Post Classic era rod from the famous Dowagiac, Michigan maker was built in Heddon’s “Handmade Rod Department” where all rods (# 20 and up) were crafted by a single rodmaker.  The only exception to this was the #22 which was Heddon’s lowest grade rod and is hardly ever seen and the #115 and #125 which were trade rods built for Sears, Roebuck & Co.).  It comes in the popular 2 ½F (bass) format and features attractive rich browntone cane with swelled butt, maroon silks tipped gold, black stripper, hardened steel snakes and tip tops, smooth and tight fitting black ferrules and a solid varnish finish that may have been overcoated at some point in the past.  I noted a few chips, nicks and bag marks in the varnish, which would respond well to a buff out.  One tip has a slight set that does not affect line flow or rod performance.  The business end of the butt section has a reversed half wells grip that was overcoated with varnish resulting in a wonderful patina, brown coral tenite seat with black D/L'ing screw and slide hood hardware, wound over WC and folding ring HK.  Original straight line Heddon writing is present on the butt.  The rod comes with the original Heddon labeled bag with stitched in hand tag and original maroon Heddon tube, sans label or pressure fit cap.  A pull string tube cap will be provided.  The rod has a delightful medium action that tosses a long authoritative loop when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-6/WF-7. $350 $295

Heddon DeLuxe #35 ~ 8.5' ~ 3/2 ~ 2F ~ 5.29oz. ~ HDH (DT-6) ~ EXC ~ The #35 is one of Heddon’s highest grade rods and was built in Heddon’s “Handmade Rod Department” where all rods (# 20 and up) were crafted by a single rod maker.  The only exceptions to this are the #22 which was Heddon’s lowest grade rod and is rarely seen, and the two rods Heddon built for Sears, Roebuck & Co. (#115 and #125).  This Neo-classic era Heddon features attractive browntone cane with swelled butt, antique gold silks tipped black, bronze mildrum stripper, hardened steel snakes, smooth and tight fitting black N/S gun metal ferrules that give a soft pop (usual for Heddon rods) and a solid varnish finish that possibly received a light varnish overcoat and/or was buffed out at some point in the past. One tip has a light set.  The business end of the butt section is fitted with a light reversed half-wells grip (a light varnish touch up was applied over small areas of ridging), Circassian walnut seat fitted with black D/L'ing screw and slide hood hardware, black pyralin WC, and folding ring HK.  It comes with original bag with stitched in Heddon tag and original Heddon labeled metal tube.  This high quality medium action Heddon has a comfortable medium action and throws a tight light when paired with Cortland 444 Peach DT-6.  Those in the know typically pounce on high end Heddons in the 8.5’ ~ 2F format.  So… hurry if you’ve be after one, they usually don’t last long. $495

Heddon #35 De Luxe Peerless ~ 8.5' ~ 3/2 ~ 2 1/2F ~ 5.5oz. ~ 7wt ~ EXC+ RS (not sure by who) ~ The #35 is one of Heddon’s highest grade rods and was built in the old Dowagiac, MI shop’s “Handmade Rod Department” where all rods (# 20 and up) were crafted by a single rod maker.  The only exceptions to this are the #22 which was Heddon’s lowest grade rod and is rarely seen, and the two rods Heddon built for Sears, Roebuck & Co. (#115 and #125).  This post classic era Heddon was expertly restored by someone with a mature hand and features an attractive shade of light browntone cane with swelled butt, antique gold silks tipped brown, mildrum stripper, hardened steel snakes and tip tops, smooth and tight fitting blued N/S gun metal ferrules and a new and nicely executed varnish finish.  The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable straight grip with lightly flared palm, Circassian walnut seat with black D/L'ing screw and slide hood hardware, pyralin WC, and folding ring HK.  It comes with its original tan bag with stitched in hang tag and brown Heddon metal tube, sans label that it also likely original.  This high quality Heddon has a sweet medium action that throws a long line and tight loop when paired with Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-7.  This classic would be well suited to big quarry including large trout, Jacks, Atlantics and/or bucket mouths. $595

Heddon #50 De Luxe President ~ 8.5' ~ 3/2 ~ 2F ~ 5.1oz. ~ 5/6wt. ~ EXC+ RS ~ The #50 President was Heddon’s second highest grade rod, and for a time, it was the highest grade Heddon rod until the Model 1,000 “Rod of Rods” was added to the lineup.  The #50 was built in Heddon’s “Handmade Rod Department” where all rods (#20 and up) were crafted by a single rod maker.  This c. 1950s post classic era rod was painstakingly restored using original silk and spar varnish and features browntone cane with swelled butt, antique gold silks tipped green, original hardware including mildrum-style stripper, hardened steel guides smooth and tight fitting black N/S ferrules and a nicely executed spar varnish finish. The business end of the butt section has a comfortable cigar grip, hallmark Circassian walnut seat with D/Ling patent stamped screw and slide hood hardware, black WC and folding ring HK.  The original straight line Heddon writing and rod stats remain on the butt section.  The rod comes in a Heddon-labeled tan bag with brown trim and Heddon gold aluminum tube sans label.  The smooth medium-fast action tosses a sweet loop with a nice blend of power and delicacy and is well suited for dry fly work while being mindful of fine tippets.  I liked it best with a Cortland 444 Peach WF-6.  It also easily handles a 5, if desired.  Heddon President’s are becoming increasingly harder to come by.  This this one would make a fine addition to your arsenal of classic bamboo fly rods. $995

Ed M. Hunter Approved ~ 8.5 ~ 3/2 ~ 4.87oz. ~ 6wt. ~ EXC (Exceptions noted) ~ This popular private label rod was made by Phillipson for a Rocky Mountain area sporting goods store.  It was introduced circa 1948 and named after Ed M. Hunter, an Outdoor Editor for the Denver Post.  It features rich honey-colored ammonia-treated cane with swelled butt, 3 x 3 spiral nodes, jet black silks, standard-issue Phillipson guides, tight fitting Phillipson-issue N/S ferrules that give a solid pop when separated, and a nicely executed varnish finish. The tip sections are not arrow straight, which has no effect on line flow or performance.  The witness mark on the male ferrule housing of one tip sections is absent (witness marks are present on the other ferule housings), though this ferrule looks to be original.  The business end of the butt section is fitted with a modified light wells grip, Phillipson’s D/L'ing screw and slide hood black "no-rock" seat and an exposed WC.  The rod comes with a faded burgundy bag (believed to be original) and a Heddon metal tube, likely from a Heddon #35.  The comfortable medium to medium-fast action offers up a tight loop when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach  WF/DT-6.  Phillipson rods are revered for their utilitarian look and unsurpassed performance and this one is no exception.  If you’ve been in the market for a nicely made sweet-casting 8.5’er that won’t break the bank, this rod should receive significant consideration. $350

Mills Standard ~ 8.5' ~ 3/2 ~ 4.76oz ~ 5wt.~ EXC ~ This the H. L. Leonard made classic from Mills & Son of New York features attractive medium blonde cane with dramatically swelled butt, 3 x 3 nodes, old gold silks, bronze mildrum stripper, English reverse twist snakes, N/S Leonard step-down ferrules with witness marks that give a solid pop when separated and a solid varnish finish they may have been given a light overcoat.  The business end of the butt section has a newly installed full wells grip, screw D/L’ing seat with butternut spacer, petite N/S WC and folding ring HK.  The side of butt cap carries the STANDARD Mills & Son Makers N.Y. die stamp.  The rod comes with a light green bag, detached hang tag, and unlabeled metal tube.  The crisp and lively medium action throws a sweet loop when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-5 and will also easily handle a 6.  If you been looking for quality Central Valley classic and don’t want to spend the coin for one with the H.L. Leonard die stamp on the butt cap, this fine piece of fly fishing Americana should garner some heavy consideration. $595

Orvis Madison ~ 8.5' ~ 2/1 (made that way) ~ 4 ¾ oz. ~ G.B.F. (8) ~ Serial No. 63564 ~ EXC+ (exception noted) ~ This classic from the famous VT based purveyor of fine tackle was built in 1971 during the Ron White era and features attractive impregnated cane, Orvis brown silks, Orvis issue stripper, snakes and tip top and smooth and tight fitting blued N/S ferrules that give a resounding pop when separated.  The business end of the butt section has a comfortable cigar grip, D/L'ing screw and slide hood seat with walnut spacer, exposed WC and HK station.  I noted an audible tick during the basement waggle that seems to be emanating from the winding check area.  The ferrules are tight on their stations and the rod is structurally sound.  It comes with a gray Orvis bag and original metal tube with green/silver Orvis label that includes rod info.  The taper is reminiscent of a Limestone Special that formerly resided in my quiver and although rated by Orvis for a WF-8, I much preferred its comfortable medium action when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-6.  This lightly used classic is super example of Orvis’ work from this era. It would be difficult to find a nicer American-made rod in this condition and this price! $325

Payne Model 106 ~ 8.5' ~ 2/2 ~ 5.04 oz. ~ 7wt. ~ EXC ~ This Gladding-era classic features an attractive shade of light honey-tone cane with golden nodes, swelled butt, java silks tipped black with a turn of gold and burgundy at the HK and male ferrule stations, black nickel mildrum stripper, hardened steel snakes and tip-tops, blued N/S ferrules that fit smooth and tight and give a resounding pop when separated and a nicely executed varnish finish with a few very subtle varnish touch ups.  The business end of the butt section has a comfortable modified cigar grip with tapered nose, silver screw U/L'ing seat with walnut spacer, blued  WC and folding ring HK.  PAYNE Reg U.S. Pat. Off. and Made For Abercrombie & Fitch Co. are stamped into the side of the screw hood.  It comes with a tan bag sans hang tag and metal tube with brass end, collar and cap, sans label, and tan canvas tube cover.  This powerful casting instrument has a silky smooth medium-fast action that really like a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-7. It and would be the perfect choice for the Yellowstone, Henrys Fork, Missouri or Big Horn larger rivers or anywhere where the wind blows hard and often. $1,995 $1,825

Payne Model 204 ~ 8.5' ~ 3/2 ~ 5.1oz. ~ 5/6wt. ~ EXC+ (RS) ~ The Model 204 is widely regarded as being the best rod Jim Payne built.  This pre-Gladding era classic was acquired from the late Len Codella.  It was originally “Sold By” A&F and is so stamped on the reel seat hardware.  The fine restoration was performed by someone with mature hand.  It features attractive honey-tone cane with swelled butt, golden nodes, java silks tipped black with a turn of burgundy and gold at the HK and male ferrule stations, black mildrum stripper, snakes and tip-tops, smooth and tight fitting blued N/S step-down ferrules that give a satisfying pop when separated and a wonderfully-executed varnish finish.  The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable cigar grip with lightly flared palm and tapered nose, nicely figured walnut seat with screw U/L’ing hardware, blued WC and folding ring HK.  One side of the reel seat screw carries the aforementioned A&F Co. New York die stamp, the other side carries the PAYNE Reg U.S. Pat. Off. Die stamp.  The rod comes with a gray bag, sans hang tag, and Payne-issue brass-capped aluminum tube that has a small dents near the bottom that does not affect rod storage or removal.  This precision casting instrument has a silky smooth medium to medium-fast action that is well-suited to dry fly work and exhibits a nice combination of power and delicacy.  Superb! $1,995

Phillipson Powr Pakt ~ 8.5' ~ 3/2 ~ 5oz. ~ 5wt. ~ EXC+ (exceptions noted) ~ This highly popular Rocky Mountain classic was expertly re-wrapped and touched up by Mike Clark in Lyons, CO and features attractive light carmel-toned cane with swelled butt and resorcinol glue lines 3 x 3 nodes, yellow silks tipped black, Phillipson-issue guides, smooth and tight-fitting N/S ferrules with properly aligned witness marks that give a satisfying pop when separated, and a nicely executed varnish finish that has a few subtle touch ups.  One tip is 9/16” short which has no affect whatsoever on the rods performance.  The business end of the butt section is fitted with a full Wells grip, butterscotch screw D/L'ing “no-rock” seat, and exposed WC.  The rod comes with the original tan canvas bag and properly labeled metal tube.  The comfortable and easy-throwing medium-fast action throws a sweet loop when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-5.  This is a real point & shoot rod that allows for long, accurate casts and easy line pick-up.  Phillipson rods are known for their utilitarian look and high caliber performance. This one is super example of just that! $495

R.L. Winston ~ 8.5' ~ 2/2 ~ 4 3/4 oz. ~ 6wt ~ SN 5907 ~ EXC-(exceptions noted) ~ This early hollowbuilt San Francisco Winny classic was built in 1940 by Lew Stoner and Red Loskot in the original Bryant Street shop on and appears to have been rewrapped and/or over-coated as evidenced by the shiny newish looking wraps and varnish, likely done by Winston. The rod features an attractive shade of light carmel-colored cane, putty silks tipped burgundy at the HK, signature wraps, ferrule stations and tip tops, mildrum stripper followed by two smaller diameter bronze strippers on the butt, chrome snakes and tip tops and smooth working ferrules with the hallmark putty silk overwrapping on the male and female housings. The ferules give a light pop when separated. One tip section is an inch short, apparently at the tip top end, and a faint ferrule tick can be felt when the full length tip is in use. There is also an inch long protective wrap, likely added when the rod was re-wrapped, on the butt section that appear to be covering a glue line inconsistency. The business end of the butt section is fitted with a modified wells grip, screw D/L’ing bakelite seat, exposed bakelite WC and folding ring HK. The rod comes with a rose colored SF Winston-labeled bag and aluminum tube, sans label. The smooth, medium to medium fast-action throws a tight loop, for me best with a Cortland Peach DT-6. This historically significant rod is a super find for the SF Winston enthusiast. $995 $495

W&M Stream & Lake Model SL8642 ~ 8.5' ~ 3/1 ~ 5.19oz. ~ 6wt. ~ EXC RS (exception noted) ~ The Stream & Lake replaced the very popular Granger Champion circa 1947 and become one of W&M's best sellers.  This Rocky Mountain classic was nicely restored by Grand Rapids’ Tom Sherman and features rich ammonia-treated carmel-colored cane with swelled butt, 3 around nodes, red silks, W&M furnishings include a red agate stripper, hardened steel snakes and tip top, smooth and tight fitting N/S ferrules (witness marks not aligned indicating the ferrules were also reset) that give a nice pop when separated and a nicely executed new varnish finish with original rod model markings on the butt section.  The sections measurements are as follows:  Butt 34 5/8”, Mid: 34 ½”, Tip: 34 3/8”.  The business end of the butt section has a comfortable reversed half wells grip, patented internal U/L metal seat with proper W&M stampings and exposed WC.  The rod comes with a replacement REC hooded bag and a replacement aluminum tube.  The rod has a smooth medium action that tosses tight loops with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-6 with ample power for long accurate line delivery. It will also easily handle a 7 if asked.  If you’ve been after an affordable 8.5’ W&M/Granger, this restored and stream-ready rod will not disappoint. $225 $175

Paul H. Young Dry Fly Special ~ 8.5' ~ 3/2 ~ 4.87oz. ~ EXC+ RS ~ This c. 1940 classic from was made for the famous Detroit, MI PHY company by the famous Dowagiac, MI Heddon Company and was expertly restored by Steve Blake.  It features attractive browntone cane with swelled butt, brown silks tipped old gold, black mildrum stripper, hardened steel snakes and tip tops, smooth and tight fitting blued N/S ferules that give a satisfying pop when separated and a nicely executed glass smooth varnish finish.  The business end of the butt section has a modified light wells grip with thumb depression, walnut seat with blued D/L'ing cap and ring hardware, exposed pyralin WC and folding ring HK.  The rod comes with what is likely the original light brown bag (small hole in the bag hood”) and Heddon style aluminum tube.  The comfortable medium to medium fast action throws a wonderfully smooth line, for me best with a Cortland Peach WF/DT-6 capable of long accurate casts.  This desirable piece of Americana is a super find for the Heddon/PHY enthusiast. $995 $795

Phillipson Pacemaker ~ 9' ~ 3/2 ~ 5 5/8 oz. ~HCH ~ EXC (exception noted) ~ This post WW-II Rocky Mountain classic was one of Phillipson's most popular rods and features attractive ammonia-treated cane with swelled butt, 3 x 3 spiral nodes,  green silks (‘ala the Granger Special) tipped gold, black mildrum-style stripper, hardened steel snakes and tip tops, tight fitting N/S ferrules that give a solid pop when separated and a nicely executed varnish finish.  One of the tip section ferrules is loose on its station and will need to be reset.  The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable Wells grip, screw D/L'ing black "no-rock" seat and exposed WC.  The rod comes with the original tan bag and original fiber tube with the majority of the green/white label still intact.  The sweet medium action throws tight loops with Cortland 444 Peach DT-6/WF-7 and is well suited for multiple uses, whether that be dries, terrestrials, streamers, nymphs and/or bass buggin.  Phillipson’s are revered for the their utilitarian look and unsurpassed performance and the best part is… they won’t break the bank… with room for a ferrule reset $250

FE Thomas Special ~ 9’~ 3/2/3 ~ 5.3oz. ~ 7/8wt. ~ Serial No. 22 ~ VG (exceptions noted) ~ The FE Thomas Company built rods from turn of the 20th Century up to c. 1958-59.  During their early years, and up through 1936, the rods were numbered with a die stamp on the bottom of the butt cap, usually starting with the number 1 and continuing until the end of that calendar year and then repeated again the following year beginning with number 1.  At some point in the mid to late 1930s (some believe 1936-37), the FET Co. modified the die stamp to include both symbols and numbers.  This FET classic has the number 22 stamped into the bottom of the butt cup and is believed to be a pre-1937 rod.  This old world classic with 2 mid sections (1 mid section is 5” short) and 3 tip sections (the ferrule on 1 tip section was broken off and this tip also has a ¾” repair wrap between the last snake and tip top)  features light browntone cane with a lightly swelled butt, red silks tipped black, red agate stripper housed in a silver frame, reverse twist hardened steel snakes, hardened steel tip tops, N/S ferules that give a give a solid pop when separated, but will need some cleaning to seat 100%, and a varnish finish that is beginning to craze and has some nicks and bag marks.  The guides also need a thorough cleaning.  The business end of the butt section has a cigar grip with tapered nose, railed German silver seat with D/L'ing slide band hardware and the hallmark FET petite WC with attached folding ring HK.  The makers die stamp is present on the side of the seat near the bottom.  The rod comes with what is likely the original brown bag and aluminum tube.  The rod has a sweet medium action that will perform admirably in the hands of a patient caster.  This nearly century-old classic is a super find for the FET enthusiast and with the value added mid and tip sections, is a perfect candidate for restoration. $395 $295