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 $375

H.L. Leonard ~ 6’ ~ 2/2 ~ 1 3/4oz. ~ 3wt. ~ Serial No. 1774 ~ EXC ~ This sweet little light line “spionoza” is rarely seen and features medium blonde cane with swelled butt, 3 around nodes, Chinese red silks, black guides, smooth and tight fitting petite N/S Leonard step-down ferrules that give sweet pop when separated and a nicely executed varnish finish that possibly has received a light over-coat at some point in the past. The business end of the butt section is fitted with a petite cigar grip with tapered nose, butternut seat with Catskill-style D/L’ing N/S slide band hardware. The butt cap carries the post fire HL Leonard Rod Co. makers die stamp. The rod comes with the original pale yellow bag with stiffener and heavy-gauge metal tube with brass cap, collar and end cap and red/silver Midland Park label. The medium-slow action handles an Orvis WF/DT-2 and WF-3 line and is heralded by many as “THEE” rod for small wild brook trout in their habitat. This is super find for the Leonard enthusiast. $1,795

Sweetgrass Mantra Quad ~ 6' ~ 2/1 (made that way) ~ 2.33oz. ~ 4wt. ~ Serial No. 10-056 ~ As New ~ According to the fine folks at Sweetgrass, The Mantra Series of fine bamboo fly rods are based on Glenn Brackett and Jerry Kustich designed tapers and have minor cosmetic imperfections (this one is sans serial number on the tip section).  All Mantra Rods come with 1 tip only and are fitted NS ferrules, carbaloy stripper, snake-brand snakes, marbleized resin WC, and black steel HK.  This one features light carmel cane with 2 around nodes, copper-brown silks with black accent wraps at the WC, HK, signature wrap tip-top and ferrule stations, tight fitting ferrules give a nice pop when separated and a nicely executed glass smooth varnish finish.  Silk wraps adorn the female ferrule, much in the Brackett/Kustich tradition.  The business end of the butt section has a comfortable modified cigar grip, birds eye maple seat,fitted with black D/L’ing cap and ring hardware, resin WC and black HK station.  The rod comes with its original soft cloth 2-compartment bag and brown wrinkle-finish metal tube with brass end, cap and collar and attractive company logo.  The brisk medium-fast action throws a sweet loop, for me best with a Cortland 444 Peach WF-4 and would be right at home on smaller brookie-laden streams.  The quad construction also affords plenty of reserve power that will reach out when called.  This one looks to have seen very limited, if any, use and is another in a long line of fine bamboo rods from the ‘Boo-boys’. $895

Sweetgrass Mantra ~ 6'3” ~ 2/1 (made that way) ~ 2.29oz. ~ 3wt. ~ Serial No. 11-146 ~ As New ~ According to the fine folks at Sweetgrass, The Mantra Series of fine bamboo fly rods are based on Glenn Brackett and Jerry Kustich designed tapers and have minor cosmetic imperfections (none noted on this rod).  All Mantra Rods come with 1 tip only and are fitted NS ferrules, carbaloy stripper, snake-brand snakes, marbleized resin WC, and black steel HK.  This one features light carmel cane with 2 around nodes, copper-brown silks with black accent wraps at the WC, HK, signature wrap tip-top and ferrule stations, tight fitting ferrules give a satisfying pop when separated and a nicely executed glass smooth varnish finish.  Silk wraps adorn the female ferrule, much in the Brackett/Kustich tradition.  The business end of the butt section has a comfortable cigar grip still wrapped in plastic, beautifully figured tiger maple seat, fitted with black D/L’ing cap and ring hardware, resin WC and black HK station.  The rod comes with its original soft cloth 2-compartment bag and brown wrinkle-finish metal tube with brass end, cap and collar and attractive company logo.  The progressive action throws a sweet loop, for me best with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-3 and would be right at home on smaller brookie-laden streams.  This rod does not appear to have ever seen the water and is another in a long line of fine bamboo rods from the ‘Boo-boys’. $895

R.W. Summers Midge ~ 6'4” ~ 2/2 ~ 2.26oz. ~ 4wt. ~ Serial No. 6390 ~ EXC+ ~ Mr. Summers’ distinguished career at the Paul Young Company and as owner of the R.W. Summers Company needs little introduction to those who own, collect, and fish high quality bamboo fly rods.  He is widely regarded as one of the premier makers on the planet.  This light line classic from Traverse City, Michigan is a Summers Deluxe model made in 1990 and features attractive flamed cane with golden nodes, translucent brown silks tipped black with a turn of red at one tip top and turn of black at the other for tip differentiation purposes, quality Summers guides and furnishings, smooth and tight-fitting oxidized N/S ferrules with ferrule plug that give a satisfying pop when separated, and a perfectly executed glass-smooth varnish finish.  The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable cigar grip with a walnut check married between the end of the grip and cork seat, dual silver slide ring hardware, walnut butt cap and a HK station.  The rod comes in its original light brown bag with maker’s label stitched into the top and heavy gauge metal tube with brass end, cap and collar.  The maker’s name is engraved into the top of the tube cap.  The pleasant medium-fast dry fly action delivers a smooth and tight loop with a SA Ultra Buckskin DT-3 and Cortland 444 Peach WF-4.  This Michigan-made classic in the desirable six four format has very low mileage and will surely please the most discriminating angler. Superb! $2,995

Ron Kusse Performance ~ 6.5’ ~ 2/2 ~ 2 1/2oz. ~ 4wt. ~ Serial No. 8723 ~ EXC+ ~ This quality crafted 1-owner rod from the former Vice President of H.L. Leonard Rod Company features attractive light honey toned cane with dramatically swelled butt, golden nodes, translucent tan silks, black nickel stripper, light wire snakes and black tip tops, tight fitting blued Super -Z- style N/S ferrules give a nice pop when separated, and a nicely-executed glass smooth varnish finish.  The business end of the butt section has a cigar grip with tapered nose, nicely figured polished walnut seat fitted with blued N/S D/L’ing cap and ring hardware and exposed blued WC.  The maker’s logo is stamped into the side of the butt cap.  The rod comes with a light tan bag with hang tag and sewn in stiffener, gray aluminum tube with brass end cap and collar and the original grip paper with rod notes.  The rod has a crisp medium-fast action and for me, throws a tight loop when paired with a SA Ultra Buckskin DT-3.  Don’t miss out on this unique finely-tuned wand that has only seen the water a time or two, and scarcely seen on dealer lists. $1,395

SOLD

SOLD

Redwing Fly Rods “Catskill Parabolic” ~ 6’9” ~ 2/2 ~ 2.6oz. ~ 2/3wt. ~ EXC+ ~ Check out this neat little light line offering from the shop of Wisconsin’s Joe Balestrieri… you’ll be glad you did!  Mr. Balestrieri is well-known in WI for making high-quality bamboo rods at an affordable price.  It features attractive flamed cane with golden nodes, burgundy silks, black at one tip top guide for tip differentiation purposes, quality furnishings include a black mildrum-style stripper, smoked light wire snakes, chrome tip tops, smooth and tight fitting blued truncated N/S ferrules and a nicely executed varnish finish.  The business end of the butt section has a light cigar grip with tapered nose, cork seat and dual blued “wedding” band hardware.  The rod comes with a sturdy bag and green wrinkle-finish metal tube with gold end, cap and collar and with maker’s label.  The brisk lightly parabolic action is designed for small stream use and tight venues.  This rod with very low mileage may have seen the water a handful of times.  It’ll be hard to find a nicer American made bamboo rod! $595

Kastelin ~ 7’ ~ 3/2 ~ 4oz. ~ 5wt ~ SN 061 ~ New~ This offering from the bench of Walhalla, Michigan’s Jim Kastelin is based on a George Maurer Bitch Creek taper. Jim was a Transportation Supervisor for the Ludington Public School system and began building bamboo rods in 2006, mostly for use on his home river, the Pere Marquette. This one features an attractive shade of medium blonde cane, burgundy silks, mildrum-style stripper, light wire guides, tight fitting N/S ferrules that give a satisfying pop when separated and a smooth hand rubbed spar varnish finish. If you look hard enough, you may find a slight variation in cane color. The business end of the butt section has a comfortable light Wells grip, birds eye maple seat with silver D/L’ing slide band hardware, and exposed WC. The rod comes with a quality-made bag. No tube (a form fit PVC tube will be provided). The strong medium-fast action is perfect for dry fly work on small to midsize streams, and really likes a Cortland 444 Peach WF-5. This sweet little wand is being offered at an attractive introductory price. $425

Leonard #38 ~ 7' ~ 2/2 ~ 2 1/2oz ~ 3/4wt ~ Serial No. 2256 ~ EXC ~ This sweet casting post-fire classic features attractive medium blonde cane with swelled butt, 3 around nodes, Chinese red silks, black guides, smooth and tight fitting N/S Leonard step down ferrules that give a satisfying pop when separated and a nicely executed varnish finish.  The business end of the butt section has a petite cigar grip, butternut seat with Catskill-style D/L’ing N/S slide band hardware.  The butt cap carries the post fire HL Leonard Rod Co. makers die stamp.  The rod comes with the original pale yellow bag with stiffener and heavy-gauge metal tube with brass cap, collar and end cap and red/silver Midland Park label.  In the hands of a patient caster, the rod is a joy to cast.  The medium-slow action throws a tight loop, for me best with a SA Buckskin DT-3.  This another super find for the Leonard enthusiast. $1,495

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H.L. Leonard Duracane ~ 7' ~ 2/1 ~ 2.69oz. ~ 3/4wt. ~ Serial No. 2157 ~ EXC ~ This popular offering from the H.L. Leonard Rod Company features an attractive shade of honey-toned impregnated cane, forest green silks, black guides, and smooth and tight fitting N/S ferrules which give a satisfying pop when separated. The business end of the butt section has a cigar grip, butternut seat with N/S D/L'ing cap and ring hardware, petite N/S WC and folding ring HK. The side of the butt cap carries the H. L. Rod Co. Makers die stamp.  The rod comes with a replacement tartan bag and unlabeled metal tube with brass end, cap and collar.  This brisk medium is well suited for dry fly work on small to mid-size streams when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-3/WF-4.  Green wrap Duracanes have a dedicated following and deservedly so.  This one is a nice find for the Leonard enthusiast. $595

Orvis Battenkill ~ 7’ ~ 2/2 ~ 3 1/2oz. ~ 4wt. ~ Serial No. 20430 ~ EXC- ~ This sweet casting little wand from the Chas F. Orvis Co. was made in 1956 by two of Orvis’ best, Calvin Skinner and George Reid.  It features richly hued impregnated cane with golden nodes, Orvis brown silks, fine Orvis furnishings including chrome snakes and tip-tops and smooth and tight fitting blued N/S ferrules that give a nice pop when separated.  There is some bluing loss and most of the writing on the butt section has worn off, though the serial numbers remain intact.  The business end of the butt section has a cigar grip, Orvis-issue aluminum D/L’ing screw & slide hood seat with walnut spacer, exposed WC and chrome HK station.  The rod comes with the original gray bag and original tube with the blue/white paper label.  The comfortable medium action is well-suited for roll-casting and dry fly work at close range.  Although this rod was rated by Orvis for an HDH (DT-6), I found it much better suited with a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-4.  Orvis rods from the 50’s are held in high regard and remain highly sought after. $575

Orvis Battenkill ~ 7’ ~ 2/2 ~ 3 3/8 oz. ~ HDG (WF-6) ~ Serial No. 52621 ~ EXC ~ This super small stream rod from the Chas F. Orvis Co. was made in 1968 during the during the Bill Young era.  It features richly hued impregnated cane wrapped with 3 around golden nodes, Orvis brown silks, fine Orvis furnishings including chrome snakes and tip-tops and smooth working blued N/S ferrules.  The business end of the butt section has a modified cigar grip with tapered nose, Orvis-issue aluminum D/L’ing screw & slide hood seat with walnut spacer, exposed WC and HK station.  The rod comes with the original gray bag and original tube with the blue/silver label.  The comfortable medium to medium-fast action is well-suited for roll-casting and dry fly work at close to medium range.  Although rated by Orvis as WF-6, I preferred it much more with a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-5.  This is a nice example of a 1960s-era Orvis classic… that many believe, was among their best era of production. $695 $625

W.E. Carpenter Browntone ~ 7’3” ~ 2/2 ~ 3.46oz.~ 4/5wt. ~ EXC (exception noted) ~ This high quality offering from master builder Walt Carpenter comes is a very desirable length and features attractive richly-hued cane with swelled butt, 3 around golden nodes, brown silks tipped black, black guides and tip-tops, smooth & tight fitting blued N/S step-down ferrules give that give a satisfying pop when separated and a beautifully executed glass smooth varnish finish.  I noted an approximately ¾” glue line separation between the 4^th and 5^th snake guide on one of the tip.  This area appears sound and I would not hesitate to use it.  The business end of the butt section has a comfortable perfection Wells grip, beautifully figured polished walnut seat fitted with blued D/L’ing cap and ring hardware, petite blued WC and folding ring HK.  There are some marks on the reel seat and some bluing wear on the hardware.  The rod comes with the original soft cloth tan bag and metal tube with brass cap, collar and end with the maker’s label affixed below the collar.  The smooth and crisp medium-fast action throws an effortless loop on-demand when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-4/WF-5.  This sweet casting wand from one of the most respected makers on the planet would be an excellent choice for dry fly work on the Big T, Frying Pan, Gore Creek, Elk Creek, Soda Butte Creek, Elk Creek and throughout the Driftless Area… just the name and few! $2,495

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

SOLD

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 $795

Gus Nevros ~ 7.5’ ~ 2/2 ~ 3.74oz. ~ 5wt. ~ EXC ~ I am pleased to offer this Gus Nevros classic built in August 1982.  Research and available information indicate that he built about 300 high quality rods during his lifetime.  He spent time with Everett Garrison and Jim Payne in their respective shops and many of his innovated rod building techniques are still used today.  This classic features an attractive shade of light carmel colored cane, brown silks with orange and black accents, agate stripper housed in a silver frame, black snakes and tip-tops, smooth and tight fitting oxidized N/S super-z-style ferrules with exquisitely crafted olivewood ferrule plug give a resounding pop when separated, and a perfectly executed varnish finish.  The business end of the butt section has a comfortable cigar grip married to a beautiful hand-made olivewood seat with D/L’ing cap and ring hardware, matching olivewood winding check and hallmark inlaid gold ‘N’ medallion on the bottom of the reel seat.  The rod comes in a soft chocolate bag with stiffener that has an external pocket with non-slip cloths to facilitate rod section removal, and brushed aluminum tube with a brass end, collar, and ornamental engraved cap from Ron Bensley of the Rodon Rod Company.  The sweet medium-fast action is well-suited to dry fly work and throws an effortless loop when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-5.  This highly sought quality-built classic would make a wonderful addition to anyone’s quiver. Superb! $1,695

Orvis Madison ~ 7.5’ ~ 2/1 (made that way) ~ 3 1/8oz. ~ HDG (6) ~ Serial No. 61257 ~ EXC- ~ This sweet casting wand was made by Orvis in 1970 during the Ron White era and features richly hued impregnated cane, Orvis brown silks, fine Orvis furnishings including bright guides and smooth and tight fitting blued N/S ferrules that give a solid pop when separated.  There is some bluing loss and some of the writing on the rod has worn off.  The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable cigar grip with tapered nose, D/L’ing aluminum screw and slide hood seat with walnut spacer, exposed WC and HK station.  The rod comes with an Orvis-issue tan bag and original metal tube with blue/silver Orvis label.  The wonderfully smooth medium to medium-fast action would be perfect for dry fly work.  Although rated by Orvis for WF-6, I much preferred it when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach WF-5.  The majority of Orvis Madisons left the famous Vermont shop as a 1 tip rod and they remain one of the best values out there for a quality-built, bamboo fly rod.  This one was obviously a “go to” rod for someone and is ready to assume that very same role. $475

Red Willow & Co. ~ Spring Creek Guide ~ 7.5’ ~ 2/2 ~ 4.16oz.~ 5wt. ~ EXC ~ This finely tuned classic from Mark Canfield was crafted using pre-WW II E. C. Powell cane and features attractive carmel-colored cane with golden with 3 around golden nodes, matched tips, bronze silks tipped in black/gold japser, with red accent wraps and alternating wraps at the tip-top guides for tip differentiation, black nickel mildrum style stripper, bronze snakes and tip tops, smooth and tight-fitting blued N/S super-z- style ferrules that give a resounding pop when separated and a perfectly executed glass-like varnish finish.  The business end of the butt section has a comfortable cigar grip with petite blued N/S grip checks, beautiful dark tiger maple seat with blued N/S D/L’ing cap and ring hardware.  Company and maker names are stamped into the side of the butt cap.  The maker’s signature horseshoe is stamped also the butt cap as well as on the rod tube with the serial number.  cap The rod comes with a sturdy burgundy bag with brass grommeted leather hang tab, metal tube with brass end cap, collar with company label and rod info, and green rod tube cover with maker’s name and rod info neatly stitched in.  The rod was designed for powerful western trout and has a comfortable medium-fast action that is well suited for dry fly work.  It throws a tight accurate loop when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-5.  Mr. Canfield’s insights into the classics, especially Gillum rods and tapers, are immediately evident as soon as the rod is removed from the tube. Superb! $1,595

Redwing Fly Rods “Driftless” ~ 7.5’ ~ 3/2 ~ 3.5oz. ~ 4wt. ~ EXC ~ This sweet casting wand from Fox Point, WI, in the desirable three piece format, may be your new go-to rod.  Joe Balestrieri is well-known throughout the midwest for making high-quality bamboo rods at an affordable price.  It features hollow butt design, attractive richly-hued cane with golden nodes, translucent brown silks, red silk at one tip top guide for tip differentiation purposes, quality furnishings include a carbaloy stripper, smoked light wire snakes and tip tops, tight fitting blued N/S ferrules that give a resounding pop when separated and a nicely executed varnish finish.  The business end of the butt section has a comfortble cigar grip with tapered nose, beautifully figured walnut burl seat with D/L’ing blued cap and “wedding” band hardware.  The rod comes with a black bag and water tite metal tube with maker’s label affixed just beneath the gold collar.  The rod has a wonderful medium-fast action that is well suited for dry fly work.  It was designed by Joe as a 4wt. and handles a 4 without issue, but for me, it throws a tight and accurate loop when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach WF-5. It’ll be hard to find a nicer American made bamboo rod! $595

D.G. Schroeder ~ 7.5’ ~ 2/2 ~ 4.09oz. ~ 5wt. Serial No. 23799 ~ EXC ~ As soon as you remove the rod from the tube, you’ll immediately notice Don’s attention to detail and mature hand.  This stunning offering from one of today’s premier cane rods builders was built in 1999 and was Don’s 237th overall.  It features rich honey-toned cane with 2 x 2 golden nodes, matched tips, translucent brown silks tipped dark wine, and a beautifully executed varnish finish.  Fine furnishings include a black nickel stripper, black snakes and tip tops and blued N/S ferrules (with ferrule plug) that fit smooth and tight and give a resounding pop when separated.  The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable cigar grip, polished walnut seat, blued D/L’ing cap & ring hardware, petite exposed blued nickel WC and blued folding ring HK.  The maker’s logo is stamped into the side of the butt cap.  The rod comes with the original high quality tan bag with stiffener and labeled black wrinkle finish metal tube with brass cap and collar.  This is a smooth-casting wand that tosses an effortless tight loop when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-5.  Don built me a 7’9” ~ 5wt. in the 3/2 format in 2002 and it is still my “go to” rod over two decades later!  This superb rod with fairly low mileage could become your new “go to” rod. $1,395

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. $295 $250

R.W. Summers Model 275 ~ 7.5' ~ 2/2 ~ 3.28oz. ~ 4wt. ~ Serial No. 12584 ~ EXC ~ Mr. Summers’ distinguished career at the Paul Young Company and as owner of the R.W. Summers Company needs little introduction to those who own, collect, and fish high quality bamboo fly rods.  He is widely regarded as one of the premier makers of bamboo rods and his association with the PHY company is well documented.  This Traverse City, Michigan classic crafted in Mr. Summers’ deluxe format features attractive flamed cane with 2 around nodes, translucent brown silks tipped dark brown, mildrum-style stripper, chrome snakes and tip tops, tight fitting blued N/S ferrules (with ferrule plug) that give a satisfying pop when separated, and an expertly executed varnish finish.  The original owner’s name is inked on the butt section.  The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable light cigar grip with a walnut check married between the end of the grip and cork seat, dual silver slide ring hardware, walnut butt cap and a HK station.  The rod comes in its original brown bag and metal tube.  The light in the hand feel and sweet action that is just a touch on the fast side of medium throws a tight loop with a nice blend a power and delicacy and is best for me when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-4.  This Michigan-made classic will surely please and is ready for many more years on the water. Superb! $2,495

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 $695

SOLD

Thomas & Thomas Hendrickson ~ 7.5' ~ 2/2 ~ 4.83oz. ~ 5wt. ~ Serial No. 2753 ~ EXC ~ This exceptional dry fly rod from one of my favorite makers was built circa 1975-76 and is best described by these passages found in the 1982 T&T catalog: "Casting a tight, smooth, line-loop; delivering the fly with tea-cup accuracy; being able to cast close-in as well as far-off; turning over the leader at all distances; presenting the fly with delicacy; protecting fine tippets; casting a full range of fly sizes… these are the traditional requirements of a truly fine dry fly rod.  The Hendrickson rods represent the ultimate in a dry fly rod, for not only do they meet these traditional requirements, but they set a new standard of excellence in dry fly performance.  The faster, progressive action of the Hendrickson is magic in the hand.”  This finely-tuned wand features beautiful shade of light honey-toned cane with a dramatically swelled butt, 3 around nodes, lemon silk wraps, Quality T&T furnishings including smooth & tight fitting blued Swiss N/S ferrules that give a satisfying pop when separated and an exceptional impregnated finish.  The business end of the butt section has a comfortable modified cigar grip with tapered nose and lightly flared palm, beautifully figured cocobolo seat fitted with N/S screw U/L'ing hardware, petite blued WC and folding ring HK. A former owners initials are neatly engraved into the bottom of the butt cap.  The rod comes with the original tan bag with stiffener and T&T labeled metal tube with brass cap and collar.  A former owner’s initials are neatly engraved into the bottom of the reel seat butt cap and top of the rod tube cap.  The comfortable medium-fast action is just perfect for dry fly work and throws effortlessly with a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-5.  This is a super example of this model from what many believe is T&T best era of production.  It would certainly make a wonderful addition to any arsenal. $1,495 $1,395

J.L. Bradley Para 14 ~ 7’9” ~ 2/2 ~ 4.23oz. ~ 5wt. Serial No. G-4 ~ As New ~ If you have not yet heard of Joe Bradley, you will soon!.  You’ll immediately notice the quality craftsmanship and mature hand the moment you remove the rod from its tube. It features attractive light honey tone cane with 3 around nodes, matched tips, translucent tan silks tipped brown, agate stripper housed in a Joe Arguello  N/S frame, light wire snakes and tip–tops, smooth and tight fitting blued N/S ferrules that give a satisfying pop when separated, and nicely executed finish with eight coats of hand rubbed spar varnish.  The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable cigar grip with lightly flared palm and tapered nose, beautifully figured birds eye maple seat with blued U/L’ing screw and slide hood hardware and petite blued WC.  The rod comes with a quality made green bag with ferrule plug pocket (this rod is sans ferrule plugs), and metal tube with brass end, collar and cap that bears the makers label and rod info.  The sweet action has a pleasing medium-fast progressive action that really sings when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-5.  This finely tuned one-owner wand is super find for the dry fly enthusiast and is sure to please. I’d lay a bet on it! $1,250

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 $1,195

Unknown Maker ~ 7’9” ~ 2/2 ~ 3.95oz. ~ 5/6wt. ~ As New ~ If you’re looking for a nice bamboo rod that won’t break the bank, you should give serious consideration to this rod (maker unknown).  It features richly hued cane with 2 around golden nodes, brown silks, chrome stripper, black light wire snakes, chrome tip-tops, smooth and tight fitting blues Super -Z- style ferrules that give a soft pop when separated and an amateurish varnish finish.  The business end of the butt section has a comfortable torpedo grip complimented by beautifully figured black seat fitted with blued N/S D/L'ing cap and ring hardware and HK station.  The rod comes with a new bag (too long) and antique brown wrinkle finish metal tube.  The rod has a light in the hand feel with a medium-fast action that is well suited to dry fly work and throws an effortless loop with a Cortland 444 peach WF/DT-5. The quality-crafted rod, varnish notwithstanding, comes in a very popular length, is basically new and is looking for a game! $395

D.G. Schroeder Presentation Grade ~ 7'10” ~ 3/2 ~ 4.2oz. ~ 5wt. Serial No 332202 ~ EXC+ ~ This custom made 1-owner offering from the bench of Janesville, Wisconsin’s Don Schroeder will surely please the most discriminating angler/collector.  Don is widely regarding as one of today’s premiere builders of split bamboo fly rods and his fine lineup of quality rods is unsurpassed in quality.  As soon as you remove the rod from the tube, you’ll immediately notice Don’s attention to detail and mature hand.  This rod was recently complete in 2002 and is his 332nd overall.  It features richly flamed cane with 2 x 2 golden nodes, book-matched tips, translucent chestnut silks tipped in dark wine with elegant intermediate wraps, fine furnishings include an agate stripper housed in a black nickel frame, black snakes, and tip tops and blued truncated N/S ferrules (with ferrule plugs) that fit smooth and tight and give a resounding pop when separated, and an expertly executed varnish finish.   The business end of the butt section if fitted with a comfortable modified cigar grip, a highly polished and beautifully figured mortised walnut burl seat with D/L’ing blued N/S cap & ring hardware, a blued petite N/S WC and blued folding ring HK.  The maker’s name is stamped into the side of the butt cap.  The rod comes with sturdy tan bag with stiffener and high quality Arne Mason patent leather tube with both the rod maker’s and tube maker’s logos embossed into the top and bottom, respectively.  The brisk medium-fast action throws a sweet loop with a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-5.  It is perfect for dry fly work close with a nice blend power and delicacy.  This superb rod with very low mileage was well cared for and could be the crown jewel of anyone’s arsenal. $1,995

SOLD

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 $895

Gus Nevros ~ 8’ ~ 3/2 ~ 5.47oz. ~ 6wt. ~ EXC+ ~ I am pleased to offer this Gus Nevros classic built in September 1988.  Research and available information indicate that he built about 300 high quality rods during his lifetime.  He spent time with Everett Garrison and Jim Payne in their respective shops and many of his innovated rod building techniques are still used today.  This classic features an attractive shade of light honey toned cane with golden nodes, brown silks with orange and black accents and crimson intermediates, mildrum style stripper, black snakes and tip-tops, smooth and tight fitting oxidized N/S super-z-style ferrules with exquisitely crafted bloodwood “King and Queen” ferrule plugs give a resounding pop when separated, and a perfectly executed varnish finish.  The business end of the butt section has a comfortable half well grip, beautiful hand-made bloodwood seat with screw U/L’ing hardware, matching bloodwood winding check and hallmark inlaid gold ‘N’ medallion on the bottom of the reel seat.  The rod comes in a soft chocolate bag with stiffener that has an external pocket with non-slip cloths to facilitate rod section removal, and brushed aluminum tube with a brass end, cap, and collar from Ron Bensley of the Rodon Rod Company.  The original owners name is inked on the rod and his initials are engraved into the tube cap.  The strong medium-fast action throws an effortless loop and can easily handle your favorite 6 or 7 weight line.  This highly sought quality-built classic with very low mileage would make a wonderful addition to anyone’s quiver. Superb! $1,995

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 3/8oz. ~ GBF (WF-8) ~ Serial No. 57820 ~ EXC+ RS ~ This 1970 offering was expertly restored, presumably by Orvis and features richly-hued impregnated cane with 3 x 3 golden nodes, Orvis brown silks, chrome guides, 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 with tapered nose, D/L’ing aluminum screw and slide hood seat with walnut spacer, exposed WC and HK station.  The rod comes with the original gray bag Orvis-issue aluminum tube with blue/silver label.  Although this model is rated by Orvis for a WF-8, I found the accommodating medium action to be well-suited to a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-6.  This quality-made multi-purpose wand from the famous Vermont purveyor of fine tackle, looks like new and is ready for years of faithful service. $550

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 $1,295

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

R.W. Summers Model 856 ~ 8' ~ 2/2 ~ 4.87oz. ~ 5/6wt. ~ Serial No. 252001 ~ EXC ~ Mr. Summers’ distinguished career at the Paul Young Company and as owner of the R.W. Summers Company needs little introduction to those who own, collect, and fish high-quality bamboo fly rods.  He is widely regarded as one of the premier makers on the planet.  This classic from Traverse City, Michigan was made in 2001 and is Mr. Summers’ rendition of the PHY Para 15.  It features attractive flamed cane with golden nodes, translucent brown silks tipped black with a turn of red at one tip top and turn of black at the other for tip differentiation purposes, quality Summers guides and furnishings, smooth and tight-fitting oxidized N/S ferrules with ferrule plug that give a solid pop when separated, and a perfectly executed glass-smooth varnish finish.  The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable perfection grip, a beautifully figured Amboyna burl seat with D/L’ing screw and slide hood hardware and a HK station.  The maker’s name is stamped into the side of the butt cap.  The rod comes in its original brown bag with maker’s label stitched into the top and heavy gauge metal tube with solid brass end, beveled cap and collar.  The maker’s name is also engraved into the top of the tube cap.  The comfortable medium-fast action delivers a smooth and tight loop with a sweet blend of power and accuracy while also being mindful of fine tippets.  I liked it equally with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-5 and WF-6.  This Michigan-made classic with fairly low mileage is a super all-around rod, whether your game is dries, nymphs, streamers, or a dry/dropper combination. Superb! $2,695

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

R.L. Winston ~ 8' ~ 2/2 ~ 4oz. ~ 5wt. ~ Seral No. 2320 ~ EXC+ (exception noted) ~ This Glenn Brackett classic was built in 1990 and features an attractive shade of medium blonde cane with 3 around nodes, translucent tan silks tipped in burgundy at the signature wraps, tip-tops, and ferrule stations, and a perfectly executed glass smooth varnish finish.  Quality furnishings include Winston-issue guides and hallmark wound-over duronze ferrules that fit smooth and tight and give a satisfying pop when separated.  The business end of the butt section has a recently replaced (by Glenn Brackett) cigar grip, cedar barrel seat with screw D/L’ing hardware, petite N/S WC and folding ring HK.  The rod comes with a red bag with stitched in green and gold Winston label and antique bronze aluminum tube aluminum tube with Twin Bridges label.  The silky smooth medium to medium-fast action offers up a tight loop when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-5. It exhibits a wonderful blend of power, precision and delicacy.  This superb rod was obviously well cared for and is an excellent example of a classic Twin Bridges era Winston. $1,795

R.L. Winston ~ 8' ~ 3/2 ~ 4 1/4oz. ~ 6wt. ~ SN 3193 ~ EXC ~ This Winston classic, built by Glenn Brackett in the ‘90s, features an attractive shade of medium-blonde cane with 3 around nodes, matched tips, translucent tan silks with brown accents at the hook keeper, signature wraps, tip-top guides, and ferrule stations, agate stripper housed in a silver frame, chrome snakes and tip tops, hallmark wound-over duronze ferrules that fit smooth and tight and give a resounding pop when separated and a perfectly executed glass smooth varnish finish.  The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable cigar grip, Nicely figured teak seat with N/S D/L’ing screw and slide hood hardware, blonde resin WC and folding ring HK.  The rod comes with the original bad with green and red Winston logo sewn into the flap and antique brown metal tube with gold cap and collar and black and gold Twin Bridges label.  The medium to medium-fast action throws a sweet loop with little effort although rated by Winston for a 6, really came alive for me when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-5.  This super example of a Brackett-made Twin Bridges classic with low mileage could be your next go to rod. $1,995

Redwing Fly Rods “Long Taper Parabolic” ~ 8’1” ~ 3/2 ~ 3.7oz. ~ 6wt. ~ NEW ~ This custom made parabolic from Fox Point, Wisconsin’s Joe Balestrieri comes in a most desirable format and features attractive carmel colored cane with golden nodes, light avocado silks, red silk at one tip top guide for tip differentiation purposes, deep red agate stripper housed in a black nickel frame, black 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 especially comfortable extra flora grade cork grip, beautifully figured KOA seat with blued N/S D/L’ing cap and wedding bend hardware, and folding ring HK.  The rod comes with a sturdy new bag and burgundy cordura-covered Clear Creek lockable zippered tube.  The rod has a sweet light parabolic action designed for venues that require long stealthy presentations for success.  It delivers a long tight loop when paired with a Cortland 44 Peach DT-6. This is another in a long line of quality-crafted and affordable rods from this well-respected maker. $695

R.W. Summers Model 827 ~ 8'2” ~ 2/2 ~ 5.15oz. ~ 7wt. ~ Serial No. 4395 ~ EXC+ ~ Mr. Summers’ distinguished career at the Paul Young Company and as owner of the R.W. Summers Company needs little introduction to those who own, collect, and fish high quality bamboo fly rods.  He is widely regarded as one of the premier makers on the planet.  This classic from Traverse City, Michigan was made in 1995 and features attractive flamed cane with 2 around golden nodes, translucent brown silks tipped black with a turn of red at one tip top and turn of black at the other for tip differentiation purposes, quality Summers guides and furnishings, smooth and tight-fitting oxidized N/S ferrules with ferrule plug that give a satisfying pop when separated, and a perfectly executed glass-smooth varnish finish.  The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable perfection grip, a beautifully figured walnut seat with D/L’ing screw and slide hood hardware and a HK station.  The makers name is stamped into the side of the butt cap.  The rod comes in its original green bag with maker’s label stitched into the top and heavy gauge metal tube with brass end, cap and collar.  The maker’s name is engraved into the top of the tube cap.  The medium-fast action delivers a smooth and tight loop with a sweet blend of power and accuracy.  I liked it with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-6/WF-7.  This Michigan-made classic with low mileage is a must have for the hex hatch and will surely please the most discriminating angler. Superb! $2,750

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 $695

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 $250

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

SOLD

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 $1,750

W&M Granger Special Model GS8642 ~ 8.5' ~ 3/2 ~ 5.5oz. ~ 5/6wt. ~ VG+ ~ This post WW-II classic features ammonia-treated dark honey cane with swelled butt, 3 x 3 nodes, parakeet green silks, standard WM stripper, snakes and tip tops, tight fitting N/S ferrules that give a nice pop when separated and an overcoated varnish finish that has chips, marks and scratches.  The business end of the butt section is fitted with a reversed half wells grip, patented internal U/L'ing metal seat and exposed WC.  The rod comes with the original tan bag and unlabeled aluminum tube.  The smooth medium action is a touch faster than most GS8642s I’ve casted and throws a sweet loop when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-5 or WF/DT-6.  This Colorado classic is a super candidate for a redo, but is stream ready as is handsomely priced for immediate sale. $295

W&M Stream & Lake Model SL8642 ~ 8.5' ~ 3/2 ~ 4 ½ oz. ~ 6wt. ~ EXC (exception noted) ~ The Stream & Lake replaced the very popular Granger Champion circa 1947 and become one of W&M's best sellers.  It features rich ammonia-treated carmel-colored cane with swelled butt, 3x3 nodes, red silks, fine W&M furnishings include a red agate stripper, hardened steel snakes and tip tops, smooth and tight fitting N/S ferrules (with rubber ferrule plugs) that have properly aligned witness marks and give a satisfying pop when separated and a solid varnish finish.  The butt section ferrule is beginning to come loose on its station. If you look close enough, you might find a mark or two in the varnish or an uneven glue line.  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 the original bag and original black fiber tube with W&M label 100% intact.  The smooth medium action tosses tight loops with a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-6 with a surplus of power for long accurate line deliveries.  If you’ve been after an affordable 8.5’ W&M/Granger, this one should garner some serious consideration… with room for a ferrule reset. $375

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 $195

Phillipson Paragon ~ 9' ~ 3/2 ~ 5 5/8 oz. HCH ~ EXC (exceptions 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, pongee silks, black mildrum-style stripper, hardened steel snakes and tip tops, N/S ferrules (with rubber ferrule plugs) have properly aligned witness marks and give a nice pop when separated and a nicely executed varnish finish that has a few light bag marks.  The ferrules, while tight on their stations, will all rotate when 100% seated and a ferrule tick can be felt. The business end of the butt section is fitted with a Wells grip, screw D/L'ing black "no-rock" seat and exposed WC.  The rod comes with a replacement tan bag and replacement caron fiber tube.  The sweet medium-fast 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.  This one is a super candidate for some light ferrule and is priced with plenty of room to do so. $175

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