Rod Rating Designations and Abbreviations

J. H. Becker Model 664 ~ 6.5' ~ 3/2 ~ 2.9 oz. ~ 4wt. ~ Serial No. 92 ~ As New ~ This one-owner quality-constructed light line classic was built in 2008 by Vermont’s Jim Becker and has never been fished. It remains in new condition but has admittedly (by its only owner) has been lawn casted. 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. New rods from Mr. Becker are now priced into 4-figures. You can add this superb rod to your quiver for…$950

3.5 oz. ~ 4wt. ~ New ~ Steve Pennington is a forester from Des Moines, Iowa with 30 years of rod building experience. Although Steve “officially” retired from rod building in 2008, he still makes rods as time allows. The Pine River series was specifically designed to afford the flycaster an opportunity to enjoy the beauty and unique qualities that split bamboo rods offer.....at an affordable price. Steve's 7' light line wand is based on the popular Garrison 201 taper which I think is his finest taper. As shown in the stock picture, it features blonde cane, chestnut silks, and a glass smooth varnish finish. Hardware includes chrome guides and smooth and tight fitting nickel-plated brass ferrules that give a soft pop when separated. It has a comfortable dry fly grip and beautifully figured tiger stripe maple burl or walnut seat fitted with lightweight titanium finish U/L’ing screw and slide hood hardware and matching WC. No HK. Inked on the rod in black script is Pine River Trout Rod 7’ #4. The rod comes with a new soft cloth rod bag and aluminum tube with a water-tight anodized brass cap. The medium to medium-fast action has some reserve power to punch out longer casts into the wind when called upon and will protect fine tippets. This Pennington Pine River is a nice choice for small to medium-sized streams. A solid, affordable trout rod, proudly made in the USA. SOLD OUT

Pickard 704 ~ 7' ~ 2/2 ~ 2.8 oz. ~ 4wt ~ EXC+/As New ~ This quality offering from the bench of Hillsdale, Michigan’s John Pickard is based on the Paul Young Princess taper. You’ll immediately notice John’s attention to detail and mature hand when you first take the rod out of the bag. It features beautifully flamed cane with 3x3 golden nodes, matched tips, translucent brown silk wraps, quality furnishings include oxidized stripper, snakes and tip-tops, tight fitting oxidized N/S ferrules give a satisfying pop when separated and a nicely executed glass-smooth varnish finish. The business end of the butt section has a comfortable modified cigar grip that continues down to form the cork seat that is fitted with black D/L’ing cap and ring hardware, and a HK loop near cork/cane interface. The rod is simply marked Pickard 704 and comes with a quality hooded khaki bag and labeled aluminum tube with brass end, cap and collar. Its crisp and progressive medium-fast action throws a tight loop with a Cortland 444 Peach WF-4 and DT-4. This is a wonderful light line rod perfect for dry fly work on small to mid-size streams that has seen minimal use. $1,295

L.J. Downes 7312 ~ 7’3” ~ 2/2 ~ 4.4oz. ~ 4wt. ~ As New ~ Jim Downes has been hand crafting custom bamboo fly rods for over two decades and honed his craft in part, under the watchful eyes of the late George Maurer. This nicely constructed rod from Mr. Downes PA shop features attractive light honey-tone cane with lightly swelled butt, 3 x 3 nodes, book-matched tips, chestnut silk tipped black, chestnut agate stripper housed in a bonze nickel frame, bronze snakes and tip tops, smooth and tight fitting blued N/S ferrules that give a satisfying pop when separated and a nicely glass-smooth executed varnish finish. The business end of the butt section has a presentation grade cigar grip made from beautifully figured dark tiger stripe maple, matching tiger stripe maple seat with blued N/S D/L’ing cap and ring hardware and a petite blued N/S WC. The rod comes with quality-made bag with leather hag tab and labeled aluminum tube with brass cap, collar and end. The makers logo is stamped into the side of the tube cap and butt cap. The medium-fast action is well suited for dry fly work, for me best with a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-4. The present retail price for this quality-constructed rod is $1,600. Get this one, as new and sans wait. for… $1,195 $1,095

L.J. Downes 761510 ~ 7.5’ ~ 3/2 ~ 3.8oz. ~ 5wt. ~ As New ~ Jim Downes has been hand crafting custom bamboo fly rods for over two decades and honed his craft in part, under the watchful eyes of the late George Maurer. This nicely constructed rod from Mr. Downes PA features attractive light honey-tone cane with lightly swelled butt, 3 x 3 golden nodes, matched tips, burgundy silk tipped old gold, agate stripper housed in an oxidized nickel frame, black snakes and tip tops, smooth and 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 comfortable cigar grip with tapered nose, beautifully figured buckeye burl seat with blued N/S D/L’ing cap and ring hardware and a petite blued N/S WC. The maker’s logo is stamped into the side of the butt cap. The rod comes with quality made in the USA bag and labeled aluminum tube with brass cap, collar and end. The medium-fast action is well suited for dry fly work, for me best with a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-5. The present retail price for this quality-constructed rod is $1,695. Get this one, as new and sans wait, for… $1,295

Paul French 7612 ~ 7.5' ~ 2/2 ~ 3.8oz. ~ 4wt. ~ EXC+ ~ This nicely crafted rod from West Coast maker Paul French based on the Dickerson 7612 taper. Mr. French learned his craft, in part, from Darryl Whitehead, and his workmanship is top notch. The rod features attractive dark honey-toned cane with lightly swelled butt, golden nodes on alternating flats in an upward spiral pattern similar to the firing order of a six cylinder engine, book-matched tips, brown silks tipped black at the HK, tip-tops and ferrules stations (2 turns of black at one tip-top for differentiation purposes), quality furnishings include a red agate stripper housed in a black nickel frame, black snakes and tip-tops, smooth, 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 filled cigar grip, nicely figured walnut seat fitted with D/L'ing N/S cap and ring hardware and a petite blued N/S WC. The rod comes with the original burgundy bag and burgundy wrinkle finish aluminum tube with a water tite brass cap and collar. The rod has a wonderful medium-fast action perfect for dry fly work and is capable of delivering tight loops with power and accuracy when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-4. This high quality rod would make a nice addition to your quiver. $795 $695

Ron Kusse “The Elf” ~ 7.5’ ~ 2/2 ~ 3 5/8oz. ~ 5wt. ~ Serial No. 0523 ~ EXC+ ~ This quality crafted rod from the former Vice President of H.L. Leonard Rod Company features mottled impregnated cane with 3 x 3 golden nodes, translucent chestnut silks, smoke black nickel stripper, black light wire snakes and tip tops, Kusse stamped and tight fitting truncated and blued N/S ferrules give a satisfying pop when separated, and a nicely-executed impregnated finish.  The business end of the butt section has a comfortable cigar grip with tapered nose, nicely figured polished walnut seat fitted with blued N/S D/L’ing cap and ring hardware and a wound over WC.   The maker’s logo and the rod model are stamped into the side of the butt cap.  The rod comes with a light gray bag with hang tag and sewn in stiffener and a black wrinkle-finish aluminum tube with maker’s logo stamped into the side of the collar.  The rod has a crisp and pleasant medium-fast action, reminiscent of a Leonard 39, and throws a tight loop with a nice blend of power and accuracy.  I liked it when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach WF-5/DT-5.  Don’t miss out on this unique finely-tuned wand, not often seen on dealer lists.

Phillipson Peerless "63" ~ 7.5' ~ 2/1 ~3 ¾ oz. ~ 5wt. ~ EXC ~ This Rocky Mountain classic is the quintessential utilitarian dry fly rod! It features honey-toned impregnated cane with resorcinol glue lines wrapped in brown silks with yellow open spiral tipping at each guide, ferrule station, and HK, chrome stripper, snakes and tip top, and smooth fitting N/S ferrules give a light pop when separated. The business end of the butt section is fitted with a torpedo grip, bronze aluminum D/L'ing screw and slide hood "no-rock" seat, hallmark matching bronze WC, and HK loop. The rod comes with a replacement bag and aluminum tube with a few dents that do not affect storage. The medium-fast action is well-suited for dry fly work and throws tight accurate loops with a Cortland 444 Peach WF-5 or DT-5. This rod is a really nice example of Phillipson’s work that comes in the 2/1 format that will not break the bank. $495

R.W. Summers Model 275 ~ 7.5' ~ 2/2 ~ 3.2oz. ~ 4wt. ~ Serial No. 532009 ~ New! ~ 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 quality bamboo fly rods.  He is widely regarded as one of the premier makers on the planet.  This 1-owner Traverse City, Michigan classic features beautifully attractive flamed cane with golden nodes, translucent brown silks tipped black, 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, cork seat, dual slide rings, walnut butt cap and grip check, and a HK attached at the front of the grip.  The rod comes in its original chocolate brown bag with makers label stitched into the top, heavy gauge aluminum tube with brass end and cap, and original shipping tube.  The maker’s name is engraved into the top of the tube cap.  The pleasant light parabolic dry fly action is reminiscent of a PHY Perfectionist that was formerly in my quiver and delivers a smooth and tight loop, for me, best with a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-4.  The rod was made for the current owner who only endeavored to lawn cast it.  It has never seen the water. Superb! $3,995 SALE $3,495

4.2oz. ~ 5wt. ~ NEW ~ Introducing the “Coldwater Special”, a sweet-looking quality-made quad handcrafted exclusively for Coldwater Collectibles as only Doug can do. Doug is a semi-retired contractor from the coastal foothills of SoCal. He started building bamboo rods in 2002, as he puts it, “mainly out of curiosity and without ego.” Doug’s rods are hand planed and star-hollowed on a Morgan handmill. He turns his own real seats and grips and machines his own cap and ring seat hardware, winding checks, and N/S ferrules. This hollow built quad features wonder shade of medium-flamed cane acquired from Royer in 2002 and was planed to exacting tolerances. It has 2 x 2 golden nodes, bronze-housed amber-flame agate stripper, black light wire PacBay guides and tip-tops, honey brown silk windings (dark brown at the ferrule stations) and is protected with a beautifully executed Gunstocks varnish finish. Doug’s handmade square-broached oxidized ferrules fit smooth and tight. Extra-flora grade cork was used to form a comfortable modified perfection grip. The beautifully figured mortised Cherry burl seat is fitted with blued D/L’ing cap and ring hardware. The set comes with a natural linen and a jet black aluminum tube with brass cap, collar and end. The brisk medium-fast action is a joy to cast and has a real affinity for a Cortland 444 Peach WF-5 and DT-5. This rod, quality-crafted in the USA, is unlikely to last long and is being offered at a special introductory price of…

L.J. Downes 7913 ~ 7’9” ~ 2/2 ~ 4.3oz. ~ 5wt. ~ Serial No. 6622 ~ As New ~ Jim Downes has been hand crafting custom bamboo fly rods for over two decades and honed his craft in part, under the watchful eyes of the late George Maurer. This nicely constructed rod from Mr. Downes PA shop features attractive light honey-tone cane with lightly swelled butt, 3 x 3 nodes, book-matched tips, burgundy silk tipped black with full intermediate wraps, chestnut agate stripper housed in a bonze nickel frame, bronze snakes and tip tops, smooth and tight fitting blued N/S ferrules that give a satisfying pop when separated and a nicely glass-smooth executed varnish finish. The business end of the butt section has a comfortable extra flora grade cigar grip, nicely figured dark tiger stripe maple seat with blued N/S D/L’ing cap and ring hardware and a petite blued N/S WC. The rod comes with quality-made bag with leather hag tab and labeled aluminum tube with brass cap, collar and end (light tarnish on tube cap and collar). The makers logo is stamped into the side of the butt cap. The medium-fast action is a joy to cast and the 7’9” format is well suited to most trout fishing situations. I really enjoyed casting it with a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-5. The present retail price for this quality-constructed rod is $1,600+ the intermediates. Get this one, as new and sans wait. for… $1,295 $1,195

Roger Hammock ~ 7’9” ~ 3/2 ~ 4oz. ~ 5wt. ~ EXC+ ~ This finely-tuned wand from the bench of Roger Hammock (LKA was in Utah, formerly from Georgia) features attractive honey-toned flamed cane with 2 around golden nodes, matched tips, translucent tan silks, tipped black, stripped agate stripper housed in a bronze nickel frame, black light wire snakes and tips tops, blued Super-Z- style N/S truncated ferrules that fit smooth and tight and give a satisfying pop when separated, and a nicely-executed glass smooth varnish finish. The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable extra-flora grade grip with tapered nose, beautifully figured amboina seat with blued N/S D/L'ing cap and ring hardware, petite blued N/S WC and HK loop. The rod comes with a burgundy velvet bag and quality aluminum tube with brass cap, collar and end. The comfortable medium-fast throws an exceptional line, for me best with a Cortland 444 Peach WF-5. This quality-made rod with very low mileage is a real head-turner and could be your new go to rod. $995 $895

F.D. Kretchman Classic ~ 7'9” ~ 2/2 ~ 3.8 oz. ~ 5 wt. ~ Serial No. 15-79-05 ~ As New ~ Fred Kretchman has been hand crafting fine bamboo fly rods for the better part of a quarter century.  The attention to detail and mature hand is immediately apparent as soon as remove the rod from its high-quality tube.  This finely-tuned wand is based on famous Payne Parabolic taper and features richly-hued cane with 3x3 golden nodes, mirrored tips, translucent brown silks, Snakebrand guides, smooth and tight fitting N/S ferrules that give a solid pop when separated, and a perfectly-executed glass-like varnish finish.  The business end of the butt section has a comfortable cigar grip, nicely figured black walnut seat fitted with N/S D/L’ing cap and ring hardware.  It comes with a soft brushed cotton bag and aluminum tube with maker’s label.  The rod has a crisp and responsive medium-fast action and throws a tight loop with a pleasant blend of power and delicacy.  I liked it when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach WF-5.  Current retail on a Kretchman Classic is $1,850.  Get this one, as new, without the wait for… $1,095

Dickerson 8013 ~ 8' ~ 2/2 ~ 4oz. ~ 5wt. ~ EXC (exceptions noted) ~ This historically significant classic built by the famed Bellaire, MI maker was made in 1955 for Mr. Bill Flick, son of Mr. Art Flick, the renown Catskill conservationist, author and fly fisherman. It is being offered in hopes that it will once again be enjoyed by someone who loves fly fishing and bamboo rods. Based on the fine book Dickerson The Man and His Rods by Gerry Stein and Jim Schaaf, only 121 of these rods were listed in the Dickerson ledger. It features light honey-tone cane, translucent copper-brown silks tipped black, with the 4 hallmark signature wraps between the grip and stripper, mildrum stripper, smooth and tight fitting blued N/S ferrules (no pop) and a nicely executed varnish finish. There are ¾” and ¼” repair wraps located between the last snake guide and the replacement tip-top guide on one of the tips and the snake guides on this tip are a darker color, but appear to be Dickerson-issue. The other tip has a light set. The business end of the butt section has a modified cigar grip with tapered nose, walnut seat with the hallmark screw D/L’ing hardware and HK loop. It comes with a hooded bag (tiny hole at the bottom seam of butt section compartment) and aluminum tube, both thought to be original. The rod has a pleasing medium to medium-fast action and effortlessly throws a tight loop when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach WF-5/DT-5. This rare classic from one of the masters of yesteryear is ready to be used for many more years. $3,495

Goodwin Granger Favorite Model GF8040 ~ 8' ~ 3/2 ~ 4.2oz 4/5 wt. ~ NM RS ~ This popular rocky mountain classic was beautifully restored (not sure who did the work). It features attractive carmel colored cane with swelled butt, correct B/W jasper silks tipped gold with gold intermediate wraps, mildrum style stripper, hardened steel snakes and tip tops, smooth fitting N/S ferrules with witness marks that give soft pop when separated and a nicely executed varnish finish. The business end of the butt section has the desirable coke bottle grip, D/L'ing cap and ring metal seat and exposed WC. The maker’s info model name is stamped into the reel seat. The rod comes with an olive bag and unlabeled aluminum tube. The rod has a comfortable medium action that is a joy to cast and throws a silky-smooth DT-4/WF-5 line that is perfect for dry fly work. This is a super example of this highly sought-after model and a nice find for the Granger enthusiast.

3 3/4 oz. ~ 5wt. ~ Serial No. 4626 ~ EXC ~ In the late 1940s, a teenaged Gary Howells hand-planed his first bamboo fly. He continued honing his skills and eventually found work with the R.L. Winston Rod Company, ultimately becoming their chief bamboo rod maker. In 1970, after more than a decade at Winston, he began his own business, opening a one-man shop north of San Francisco. This Richmond, CA classic was built in 1979 and features an attractive shade of light honey-toned cane with 3x3 nodes, matched tips, brown silks tipped gold, fine furnishings include bronze guides, smooth and tight fitting silicone bronze ferrules that give a satisfying pop when separated and a superbly executed varnish finish. Silk wraps adorn the male and female ferrule housings, much in the Winston tradition. The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable western grip, beautifully figured hardwood seat with screw U/L’ing hardware, N/S WC and folding ring HK. The rod comes with original burgundy bag and labeled aluminum tube that includes maker/rod information and the original owners name. The smooth medium action behaves in manner that is well-suited to the dry fly enthusiast and throws a tight loop when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-5. Howells’ rods remain in high demand and this one is fine example of his work. Superb! $3,195 $2,695

4.5 oz. ~ 5wt. ~ NEW ~ Steve Pennington is a forester from Des Moines, Iowa with 30 years of rod building experience. Although Steve “officially” retired from rod building in 2008, he still makes rods as time allows. The Pine River series was specifically designed to afford the flycaster an opportunity to enjoy the beauty and unique qualities that split bamboo rods offer.....at an affordable price. This sweet casting 8’er was designed by Steve using a slightly modified Garrison 212 taper. As shown in the stock picture, the 8'er features straw colored cane, chestnut silks, and a glass smooth varnish finish. Hardware includes chrome guides and smooth and tight fitting nickel-plated brass ferrules that give a soft pop when separated. Comfortable dry fly grip and nicely figured tiger stripe maple burl seat fitted with U/L’ing screw and slide hood hardware and matching maple WC. No HK. The following is inked on the rod in black script: Pine River Trout 8’#5. Comes with a custom fit cloth bag and aluminum tube with a water-tight anodized brass cap. The brisk medium to medium-fast action allows for long casts and delicate presentations. This Pennington Pine River is a nice choice for medium to large rivers. A solid, affordable trout rod, proudly made in the USA.  SOLD OUT

Paul H. Young Parabolic 15 ~ 8’ ~ 2/2 ~ 4.2/4.3oz. ~ HDH (DT-6) ~ EXC+ RS ~ This Detroit-made classic from the Paul H. Young Co is a real powerhouse. It features attractive flamed cane, brown silks, mildrum-style stripper, smooth & tight fitting oxidized Super -Z- stamped N/S ferrules that give a strong pop and a nicely executed varnish finish. Most original-build PHY Para 15s carry a serial number that began in 1955 around the time Bob Summers began work at the Young shop. This rod is sans seral number and was likely built in the early 1950s after the Super-Z ferrules were adopted by Young and based on the varnish, wrap work and writing on the rod, was restored by Bob. The Super Z was designed circa 1948 by Louis Feierabend who spent time on the Nat Uslan’s small Spring Valley, NY staff of talented craftsmen. The rod features a dry tip (the rod weighs in a svelte 4.2 oz with this tip) and a wet tip (4.3oz) and is so marked. There is also a few turns of red silk at the tip-top guide of the dry tip for ease of identification. The business end of the butt section has a comfortable modified Wells grip (possibly replaced by Bob), black screw D/L’ing seat wth blued butt cap, cork spacer and a HK loop that appears to be Bob Summers-issue. The side of the butt cap carries the Paul H. Young Co. Detroit – Mich die stamp. It comes with what appears to be the original bag (small holes at bottom) and the original aluminum tube made from war surplus B-24 “Liberator” aircraft tubing from the Willow Run, MI bomber plant. This fine casting instrument has a medium-fast parabolic action that throws a smooth and tight loop with minimal effort. It is rated for a DT-6 silk line, but best for me when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-5/WF-6. This cool piece of Michigan history is ready for immediate use on your favorite stream. $2,995

Eduardo Scapin “New Zealand” ~ 8’3” ~ 3/2 ~ 5.3oz. ~ 6wt. ~ NEW ~ Eduardo Scapin has been hand crafting bamboo rods since 1992. This wonderful offering from the San Giorgio delle Pertiche region is based on a proprietary taper and features attractive flamed cane with swelled butt and golden 3 x3 nodes, matched tips, dark brown silks accented with a turn of white, ivory stripper housed in a smoked nickel frame, black snakes and tip tops, tight fitting blued truncated N/S ferrules (with figured walnut ferrule plugs) that give a satisfying pop when separated and a nicely executed varnish finish. The business end of the butt section has a reversed half-wells grip (with plastic still present), beautifully figured black walnut seat with D/L’ing black cap & ring hardware. The rod comes a sturdy cotton-blend bag and custom-crafted soft leather tube. The medium to medium-fast action will punch out long effortless casts with a nice blend of power and accuracy and would be well-suited for use on the Big Horn, Missouri and or Henrys Fork River. The rod metrics indicate it was designed for a 6wt line, which it handles effortlessly. However, I found a Cortland 444 Peach WF-7 to my liking as well. The reported retail for this custom-made rod in the 3/2 format is $2,500. Get this one, wait-free for…$1,950

*****Sale Pending*****

Abercrombie & Fitch #42 ~ 8.5' ~ 3/1 (made that way) ~ 5.4 oz. ~ 6 wt. ~ EXC ~ This popular Rocky Mountain classic was built for A&F by Phillipson and is a rendition of the popular Phillipson Peerless Dry Fly Special, the highest priced rod in the Phillipson arsenal ($80.00 in 1964). It features impregnated cane with swelled butt, resorcinol glue lines, “turf tan” (bronze) wraps with elegant open spiral yellow tipping, quality Phillipson furnishings include a chrome guides and smooth and tight fitting N/S ferrules that give a nice pop when separated. The business end of the butt section was completed with the hallmark Torpedo grip and large cone-shaped bronze WC, anodized bronze aluminum D/L'ing screw and slide hood seat and a HK loop. The rod comes with the original bag and gold aluminum tube (couple of small tube dents that do not affect storage) bearing the makers label. The medium to medium-fast action throws an effortless loop, for me best with a Cortland 444 Peach WF-6. This rarely seen model is a super find for the Phillipson enthusiast. $425

Roger Hammock ~ 8.5' ~ 3/2 ~ 5.9. ~ 5wt. Serial No. 1010 ~ EXC+ ~ This finely-tuned wand from the bench of Roger Hammock (LKA was in Utah, formerly from Georgia) features attractive honey-toned flamed cane with golden nodes, deep burgundy silks, tipped black, stripped agate stripper housed in a bronze nickel frame, black light wire snakes and tips tops, blued Super-Z- style N/S truncated ferrules that fit smooth and tight and give a satisfying pop when separated, and a nicely-executed varnish finish. I noted a few errant dust particles in the varnish. The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable extra-flora grade grip with tapered nose, nicely figured dark curly maple seat with blued N/S D/L'ing screw and slide hood hardware, petite blued N/S WC and folding ring HK. The rod comes with a burgundy velvet bag and aluminum tube with brass cap, collar and end. The brisk medium-fast throws an exceptional line, for me best with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-5, but will also easily handle a 6. This is an attractive, quality-made rod that would be right at home on the Delaware, Henry’s Fork, Missouri, Big Horn or Yellowstone, just to mention a few. $795

Heddon #17 ~ 8.5' ~ 3/2 ~ 2F ~ 4.95oz. ~ 5/6wt. ~ EXC+ RF (exceptions noted) ~ This popular rod from Dowagiac, MI was the workhorse of the Heddon lineup and was built during Heddon’s neo-classic era (1939 – 1948) which is widely regarded by many as Heddon’s best era. It has been nicely refinished (not sure by who) It features attractive browntone cane, jet black silks tipped orange, agate stripper housed in a black nickel frame, black snakes and tip-tops, new blued N/S ferrules that give a resounding pop when separated and a nicely exectued varnish finish. The original diagonal Heddon writing remains on the butt section, but the rod info has been re-inked. Both tips have sets, one more pronounced than the other. The business end of the butt section has the original reversed half-wells grip, black pyaralin seat with screw D/L’ing and slide hood hardware, wound over WC and a new HK. The rod comes with the original Heddon bag sans the stitched in hang tag and Heddon aluminum tube with remnants of the original label still intact. The comfortable medium action throws nice loops with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-5/WF-6 (I prefer the 5). While maybe not as collectible as an all original version, it is certainly fishable and I doubt the fish will care! $350

Heddon #17 Black Beauty ~ 8.5’ ~ 3/2 ~ 2F ~ 5.2oz. ~ 6wt. ~ EXC (exception noted) ~ This post classic era rod from the famous Dowagiac, Michigan Maker comes in the popular 2F (trout) format. The #17 was Heddon’s most popular rod and features an attractive shade of browntone cane with swelled butt, jet black silks tipped orange, black stripper, snakes and tip tops, smooth working black ferrules and a sound varnish finish. A faint ferrule click can be felt at the butt/mid connection.  The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable reversed half-wells grip, black pyralin seat with D/L'ing screw and sliding hood hardware, black WC and folding ring HK.  The rod comes with what is believed to be the original black Heddon-labeled bag (sans stitched in tag) and original black Heddon-labeled aluminum tube with pressure fit cap.  The rod has a sweet medium action and throws a silky-smooth line, for me best with a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-6. This all original classic is a nice find for the Heddon enthusiast…with room for ferrule reset. $350  $295

Heddon Erwin Weller #20 ~ 8.5' ~ 3/2 ~ 2F ~ 5.1oz. ~ 5/6wt. ~ VG (exceptions noted) ~ This Classic-era (1933 – 1938) Heddon trade rod is on par with a Heddon 17 and features browntone cane with swelled butt, black silks tipped gold,  black stripper, snakes and tip-tops, smooth fitting early Heddon N/S ferrules and a crazed varnish finish.  The butt section has a set as does both tips and a ferrule click can be felt. The business end of the butt section is fitted with comfortable cigar grip, early Heddon metal D/L’ing cap and ring seat, exposed WC and folding ring HK.  The rod comes with a correct size 3-complartment bag and era-correct aluminum tube with only remnants of the original label still intact.  The rod has a delightful medium action that is well-suited to a Cortland 444 Peach DT-5 or WF-6.  This rarely seen model is deserving of a restoration. $225 $175

H.L Leonard Model 4099 1/2 ~ 8.5' ~ 3/2 ~ 5 1/8 oz. ~ 6/7 wt. ~ EXC ~ This rare pre-fire dry fly classic is a favorite among cane rod aficionados as evidenced in this passage from the late Marty Keane in his fine book Classic Rods and Rodmakers: "Sensing a need to offer a slightly stronger #50DF, the #4099 came forward, and from it, one of the great Leonard classics, the 4099 1/2, a 3-piece 8 1/2' model, originally a tournament rod weighing 4 1/2 to 5 1/2 ounces, usually closer to the 5 1/4 to 5 1/2 ounce weight. This rod, in my opinion, deserves special mention as a superior instrument, especially for use when large dry flies, strong winds, and big water must be covered for long periods of time. Its comfortable, slightly thick grip is wisely designed and the powerful tapers allow the angler to make difficult casts with a minimum of effort. The 4099 1/2 has amazed almost everyone who has performed with it, and it remains a favorite throughout the country with amateur tournament casters and trout fisherman alike." This rod features light honey tone cane with swelled butt, 3 x 3 nodes, red silks, agate stripper, hardened steel snakes, smooth fitting N/S step down ferrules that give a nice pop and a nicely executed varnish finish. I noted that the witness marks on the ferrules are not all aligned which indicates the ferrules may have been reset and/or the rod may have been restored at some point in the past. The business end of the butt section has a cigar grip, butternut seat with N/S D/L'ing “wedding band” cap and ring hardware, petite exposed N/S WC and folding ring HK. The butt cap carries the Maker’s logo and reg. US pat off die stamp. The rod comes with the original olive bag and hang tag and brass capped aluminum tube. The comfortable medium action throws a tight loop and really came alive for me when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-6 and WF-7. Hurry, this model dos not come along tha often! $995

Orvis Impregnated “Pat Pend” ~ 8.5’ ~ 3/2 ~ 4.8 oz. ~ 5wt. ~ Serial No. 5240 ~ EXC- ~ This early impregnated classic from the famed Vermont maker was built in 1948 by two of Orvis’ best (Cal Skinner & George Reid). It features richly hued impregnated cane wrapped in Orvis brown silks, mildrum stripper, hardened steel snakes and tip tops, and smooth and tight fitting blued N/S ferrules that give a responding pop when separated. The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable cigar grip, screw D/L’ing reel seat with walnut spacer, exposed blued WC and HK loop. Some of the bluing has faded and both tips have light sets that do not affect line flow or performance. The rod comes with a tan soft canvas bag and unlabeled aluminum tube. The rod has a pleasant action that is just a touch on the fast side of medium and throws a sweet and effortless loop when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-5. It will also handle a 6 if desired. Early Orvis’ in the 3/2 format are in high demand and for good reason and represent an excellent value. What a nice find for the Orvis enthusiast. $595

Stout Bamboo Rod Works ~ 8.5’ ~ 3/2 ~ 5oz. ~ 4wt. Serial No. 1311 ~ As New ~ This nicely built rod from the bench of Georgia’s Brian Stout features attractive medium blonde cane with flamed nodes, translucent orange silks with an accent turn of black at the stripper, HK and ferrule stations, orange agate stripper housed in a silver frame, chrome light wire snakes and tips tops, Super-Z- style N/S ferrules that give a nice pop when separated and a nicely-executed varnish finish. The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable extra-flora grade cigar grip, nicely figured ash seat with N/S D/L'ing screw and slide hood hardware, petite N/S WC and folding ring HK. The rod comes with a soft black felt bag bearing the makers logo and aluminum tube with brass cap, collar and end. The medium action has a nice blend of power and delicacy and throws tight loops, for me best with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-4, but will also handle a 5. This is an attractive, nicely appointed rod that is appears unused.

Classicane ~ 9’ ~ 3/2 ~ 5.3oz. ~ 6wt ~ EXC+ ~ This rod is believed to have been built by Fred DeBell for Creative Sports of Walnut Creek, CA. DeBell began assembling bamboo rods in 1937 in the Denver, Colorado area and continued through the mid-1970s. In his later years, he acquired blanks from Phillipson and Wright & McGill and set out to put together a quality rod at an affordable price that was targeted at the everyday fisherman. The resorcinol glue lines indicate that the cane used for this rod likely came from the Phillipson stock. The rod features attractive honey-toned cane with swelled butt, bronze “turf tan” silks, chrome mildrum-stye stripper, hardened steel snakes and tip-tops, smooth fitting N/S ferrules that give a nice pop and a shiny varnish that appears. The business end of the butt section has a light reversed half wells grip, bronze D/L'ing screw and sliding hood seat, exposed WC and HK loop. The rod comes with an army green canvas bag and unlabeled Phillipson-issue gold aluminum tube, both likely original. The pleasant medium action throws a nice loop with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-6. This stream-ready classic in barely used condition is priced well below a comparable length Phillipson or W&M. $250

*****Sale Pending*****

Heddon #17 ~ 9’ ~ 3/2 ~ 2F ~ 5.6oz. ~ 6/7wt. ~ EXC RS(exception noted) ~ This neo-classic era rod from the famous Dowagiac, Michigan Maker comes in the popular 2F (trout) format. The #17 was Heddon’s most popular rod and this one was reportedly factory refinished in 1955. It features an attractive shade of browntone cane with swelled butt, jet black silks, black stripper, snakes and tip tops, smooth working black ferrules and a nicely executed varnish finish. One tip is down 1” and both tips have sets. The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable reversed half-wells grip, black pyralin seat with D/L'ing screw and sliding hood hardware, black WC and folding ring HK. The rod comes with the original Heddon-labeled bag with stitched in tag (tape covered holes at bottom of bag) and original aluminum tube with pressure fit cap and remnants of the original label. The rod has a wonderful medium-slow to medium action and throws a smooth line, for me best with a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-6. A nice find for the Heddon enthusiast…that won’t break the bank. $295 $225

Heddon #17 Black Beauty ~ 9’ ~ 3/2 ~ 2 3/4F ~ 5 3/4oz. ~ 7/8 wt. ~ EXC- (exceptions noted) ~ This 1950’s classic from Dowagiac, Michigan comes in what Heddon refers to as the Power Plus 2 3/4F format. It features an attractive shade of browntone cane with swelled butt, jet black silks tipped orange, black stripper, hardened steel snakes and tip tops, tight fitting Japanned ferrules that give a soft pop and a nicely executed varnish finish that has a few marks and dings.  a few of the guide wraps are dry and I noted a faint ferrule click. The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable reversed half-wells grip, black pyralin seat with D/L'ing screw and sliding hood hardware, black WC and folding ring HK.  The rod comes with the original Heddon-labeled bag with stitched in tag and original black aluminum tube with remnants of the original label.  The rod has an easy-throwing medium action and tosses a fine loop, for me best with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-7.  This powerhouse of a rod that appears to be all original would be a good choice for hoppers, buggers, mousing and frogging.  Priced to allow for a little TLC. $225

~ 5 3/4oz. ~ 7/8 wt. ~ EXC- (exceptions noted) ~ This 1950’s classic from Dowagiac, Michigan comes in what Heddon refers to as the Power Plus 2 3/4F format. It features an attractive shade of browntone cane with swelled butt, jet black silks tipped orange, black stripper, hardened steel snakes and tip tops, tight fitting Japanned ferrules that give a soft pop and a nicely executed varnish finish that has a few marks and dings. a few of the guide wraps are dry and I noted a faint ferrule click. The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable reversed half-wells grip, black pyralin seat with D/L'ing screw and sliding hood hardware, black WC and folding ring HK. The rod comes with the original Heddon-labeled bag with stitched in tag and original black aluminum tube with remnants of the original label. The rod has an easy-throwing medium action and tosses a fine loop, for me best with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-7. This powerhouse of a rod that appears to be all original would be a good choice for hoppers, buggers, mousing and frogging. Priced to allow for a little TLC. $225

Heddon #20 ~ 9' ~ 3/2 ~ 2 1/2F ~ 5.8oz ~ 6/7wt. ~ EXC+ RS ~ This quality rod is from Heddon’s Neo-Classic era (1939 – 1948), which is widely regarded by many as Heddon’s best era of rod production. The #20 was built in Heddon’s “Handmade Rod Department” where all rods (# 20 and up) were crafted by a single rodmaker. The only exceptions to this were the #22 which was Heddon’s lowest grade rod and is hardly ever seen, and of course the two models made exclusively for Sears (#115 and #125). This rod features browntone cane with swelled butt, deep burgundy silks tipped gold, agate stripper, hardened steel snakes, tight-fitting blued N/S ferrules, and a nicely-executed varnish finish. One tip has a light set that does not affect performance. The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable reversed half-wells grip, D/L'ing screw and sliding seat over a brown tenite spacer, wound over WC, and folding ring HK. The rod comes with a replacement bag and Heddon-issue tube. This smooth medium-slow to medium action throws a sweet loop and ample amounts of Cortland 444 Peach DT-6 and WF-7 line. This Dowagiac, Michigan classic will make a welcome addition to your large water/large fish arsenal. $295

Uslan Penta ~ 9’ ~ 2/2 ~ 6 ½ oz. ~ Salmon Rod ~ Serial No. 9364 ~ EXC- ~ Shortly after World War II, Nat Uslan began operations in Spring Valley, New York where he produced five-strip fly rods. This heavyweight penta salmon rod features carmel colored cane with nodes occurring on alternating flats in an upward spiral pattern (configured in the firing order of a six cylinder engine, so that the nodes are as far away from each other on adjacent flats as possible), avocado silks tipped orange, mildrum-stule red agate stripper, hardened steel snakes and tip tops, tight fitting N/S Super –Z- stamped ferrules that give a solid pop when separated and varnish finish that appears to have received a light varnish overcoat. at some point in the past. There are some light surface scratches and a few nicks in the varnish and a former owners name is inked on the rod. Of noteworthy interest is the Super –Z- ferrule that was designed by Louis Feierabend who spent time on Uslan’s small Spring Valley, NY staff of talented craftsmen. The business end of the butt section is fitted with a modified reversed wells grip, screw D/L’ing seat with a walnut spacer, large WC and HK loop. The rod comes with a light grey bag and aluminum tube. This rod is stout and not intended for the meek, and will handle salmon, steelies, jacks and pike/bass. What a nice find for the Uslan and/or penta enthusiast! $395

FE Thomas Dirigo ~ 9’2”/9’5” ~ 3/2/2 ~ 5.9/6.1 oz. ~ 7/8wt. ~ Serial No. 22 ~ EXC- (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. In addition to the FET Dirigo die stamp on the side of the reel seat, a former (and likely original) Reading, PA owner’s name and 1922 is stamped into the side of the reel foot sleeve further delineating the rods age. This old world classic with 2 mid sections features a rich carmel-colored hade of browntone cane with swelled butt, brown silks and intermediates, agate stripper housed in a black nickel frame, reverse twist snakes, one tip has a standard hardened steel tip top guide, the other has a milky white agate tip top guide and this tip also has a 1” long repair wrap between the 1st and 2nd snake guide. The varnish, which no doubt has been touched up and possibly overcoated over the years, is beginning to craze and has some nicks and bag marks. The blued NS ferules fit smooth and tight and give a give a solid pop when separated. The business end of the butt section has a cigar grip with tapered nose, blued German silver seat with D/L'ing. slide band hardware and the hallmark FET petite blued WC with attached folding ring HK. The rod comes with what is likely the original factory-sewn 5-compartment brown bag with properly sized slot for the shorter mid, and aluminum tube. The rod has a slow wet fly action that will perform admirably in the hands of a patient caster. This century-old classic is a super find for the FET enthusiast. $595