Rod Rating Designations and Abbreviations

Winston Binney 7512 ~ 6' 3” ~ 2/2 ~ 3.1 oz. ~ 4/5 wt.~ EXC+ ~ Serial No. 03-00 ~ Check out this quality-built small stream offering from the bench of southern Michigan’s Winston Binney. Mr. Binney formerly finished out cane rods for his friend Larry Foster, the late President of the H.L. Leonard Rod Company, during the time in which Mr. Foster owned the Leonard name. He’s been restoring cane rods as well as assembling graphite & glass rods since the late 1960s. During the 1980s, he became acquainted with Larry Foster and wrapped and finished a number of Leonard cane rods for him in exchange for furnishings (reel seat parts, guides, thread, etc.). He began hand-planing cane rods in the 1990s and bought a hand mill from Tom Morgan in 2000 which he used exclusively for final tapers. This rod was built on a Wayne Cattanach taper and features an attractive shade of light browntone cane wrapped in copper brown silks tipped black at the ferrule stations, tip tops, HK and signature wrap, black stripper, snakes and tip tops, smooth and tight fitting oxidized N/S ferrules that give a satisfying pop when separated, and a nicely executed varnished finish. The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable light cigar grip, nicely figured stabilized maple seat with oxidized D/L'ing cap and ring hardware and petite oxidized WC. The rod comes with a soft 2-compartment bag an aluminum tube with brass end cap and collar. The brisk medium-fast action is well suited for dry fly work in tight spaces and will reached out when paired with a Cortland Peach DT-4/WF-5 using both conventional and roll-casts (I prefer the 4). This rod would be a welcome addition to the quiver of any small stream angler. $695

Paul H. Young Midge ~ 6'3” ~ 2/2 ~ 1 3/4oz. ~ 3/4wt. ~ Serial No.4107 ~ EXC+ RS ~ This wonderful Detroit-made classic from the Paul H. Young Co. may well be the perfect small stream dry fly rod. It was expertly crafted by Bob Summers in 1963 who restored it in the 2000s (photo of the invoice shown in the picture, but a hardcopy was not provided). The work included the crafting of a new a new tip section, the installation of a new grip, replacement of the snake guides and tip-tops and new varnish. It features an attractive shade of light browntone cane, root beer brown silks, quality Summers furnishings include a mildrum stripper, black snakes, and tip-tops, oxidized ferrules that give a nice pop when separated and a nicely executed new varnish finish. The business end of the butt section has a comfortable new modified torpedo grip that tapers down into the cork reel seat fitted with black dual knurled slide bands rings and fixed HK loop. The rod is marked in Bob’s hand. The serial number is present on the tip sections but absent from the butt section. The rod comes with the original burgundy/brown satin bag (tape covered holes at the bottom) and what is likely the original unlabeled aluminum tube. This brisk medium-fast action throws a tight loop with minimal effort and is perfect for close-in venues. It’ll handle a 3, but I really liked it with a Cortland Peach 444 WF-4. If you’ve been wanting fish a PHY Midge, in wonderful condition and restored by the original maker, here’s your chance! $1,995

SOLD

Phillipson Haywood Zephyr Spin ~ 7' ~ 2/1 (made that way) ~ 4 1/2oz. ~ EXC (exception noted) ~ Phillipson introduced this model in 1947 not long after Bill Phillipson’s failed attempt to purchase the Goodwin Granger Company. It was crafted by Phillipson for Whitney Sporting Goods in Denver and named for Jim Haywood, the "Roving Fisherman" for The Denver Post. It features attractive light honey-tone cane with swelled butt, black wraps with open back spiral tipping spinning guides (regrettably, the first guide above the make ferrule is cracked in half), smooth a tight fitting N/S ferrules that give a resounding pop when separated and a nicely executed varnish finish that has a small rough area on the butt. The business end of the bitt section has a no rock reel seat. The rod features the elliptical grip and has burnished gold wraps with black tipping has the popular elliptical “hammer handle” grip, bronze no rock seat with black D/L’ing screw and slide hood hardware and exposed WC. It comes in its original brown plastic case with original paper label 85 % intact and protected by clear tape. A sweet ole classic for those who prefer to toss Mepps and Panther Martins. Because of the broken guide... $195

Thomas & Thomas Paradigm ~ 7' ~ 2/2 ~ 3.2 oz. ~ 4wt. ~ Serial No 3739 ~ As New ~ From the 1982 T&T Catalog: The Paradigm is intended for the dry fly fisherman who has a more relaxed casting style and who seeks a rod with a smoot, silky action, but with hidden power. The Paradigm rods have been designed with he rare dual capacity to generate a tight loop while loading fully…even in close. They are progressive actioned rods of remarkable finesse, possessing a hidden power reserve which is almost magical” This delightful little wand from one of my favorite makers was built in 1981 and features an attractive shade of medium blonde cane with dramatically swelled butt, 3 x 3 nodes, matched tips, translucent antique gold silks tipped cinnamon, quality T&T guides, blued Super -Z- style N/S ferrules that fit smooth and tight giving a resounding pop when separated and an expertly executed and industry best varnish finish. The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable cigar grip, nicely figures walnut seat with blued D/L'ing cap and ring hardware, petite blued WC and a folding ring HK. The rod comes with the original T&T labeled tan bag with stiffener and labeled brass capped aluminum tube. The comfortable and accommodating action is just a touch on the fast side of medium and throws a tight loop with a wonderful blend of precision and delicacy with a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-4. This high quality rod from one of the most respected purveyors of fly fishing gear in the world is a super find for the T&T aficionado. Superb! $2,295

J.D. Wagner Quad Model 270Q-LSB ~ 7' ~ 2/2 ~ 3.5 oz. ~ 3/4 wt. Serial No. 102-1 ~ EXC+/As New (exception noted) ~ This heirloom quality rod from Parma Ohio’s Jeff Wagner’s Signature Series of fine rods features elegant dark cane with golden 2 x 2 nodes, matched tips, burgundy silks deep red agate stripper house in an oxidized black frame, black snakes and tip-tops, oxidized N/S ferules that fit smooth and tight and give a satisfying pop when separated and a nicely executed glass smooth varnish finish.  There is some minor bluing loss on the reel seat hardware.  The business end of the butt section has a comfortable modified light cigar grip, nicely figured polished hardwood seat fitted with blued D/L’ing cap and ring hardware, oxidized silver WC and folding ring HK.  The rod comes with the original labeled soft cloth bag and labeled black wrinkle-finish aluminum tube with black tube cover.  The brisk medium action flexes into the butt and roll casts beautifully.  I found it best for me with a SA Mastery Buckskin DT-3 and Cortland 444 Peach WF-4.  Superb! $1,995

F.T. Williams & CO LTD “The Rivercraft” ~ 7'2” ~ 2pc. ~ 6oz. ~ Med-Fast Action ~ EXC (exception noted) ~ This classic spinning rod from London England is a real blast from the past. It features attractive light honey-tone cane, deep burgundy silks (possibly re-wrapped at some point) with full intermediates, over-sized red agate stripper, bridge snakes and bridged red agate tip top and blued spiked ferrules that give a solid pop when separated. The business end of the butt section has an elongated straight spinning rod grip with dual slide bands, fighting butt and exposed WC. The makers name is stamped into the side of the elongated butt cap. No bag or tube. There’s still plenty of life left in this ole classic for those who prefer to toss Mepps and Panther Martins. $395 $195

Blitzen River Rod Co. “Blitzen 4” ~ 7.5' ~ 2/1 (made that way) ~ 4oz. ~ 4wt. Serial No. B7640519016 ~ As New ~ This beautifully crafted rod from the bench of Oregon’s Chris McDowell is based on a proprietary taper and features wonderful lightly flamed cane with 3 x3 golden nodes, jet black silks, black stripper and Quality furnishings include black stripper, snakes and tip-top, blued N/S ferules 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 has a comfortable full Wells grip, black seat with black D/L'ing screw and slide hood hardware.  The rod comes with the original 2-compartment bag and labeled aluminum tube.  The sweet medium-fast action is perfect for dry fly work and the rod is capable of delivering a long line with a delicate presentation.  It really sang for me when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-4.  This attractive wand, nicely crafted in the USA, would be a welcome addition to anyone’s quiver. $595 $495

Heddon #13 Featherweight ~ 7.5' ~ 2/2 ~ 03/4F ~ 4.6oz. ~ 4wt. ~ EXC+ ~ Heddon initially offered their famed Featherweight series mostly by special order before WW-II but they were included in Heddon catalogs between 1939 and 1943 and production continued through the early 1950s. By 1952, the Featherweight series was discontinued, no doubt to the chagrin of Heddon enthusiasts. This Heddon Featherweight, from the famed Neo-Classic era (1939-1948), was purchased from the late Marty Keane who noted that the rod had been over coated by a well known NY restorer (would not be surprised if this was the late Mike Longuil). A bonus 3rd tip was built for the rod by Seattle’s Jeff Pope using excess Phillipson stock and is an excellent match. It features attractive light browntone cane with a dramatically swelled butt, antique gold silks tipped black, red agate stripper, hardened steel snakes and tip tops, smooth working N/S ferrules (male ferrule on the non-original tip will seat about 98%) and a nicely executed overcoated varnish finish. The business end of the butt section has a cigar grip, D/L'ing screw and sliding hood seat over a brown coral tenite spacer, exposed WC and folding ring HK. The original spiral Heddon writing with straight line rod stats were left intact during the overcoat. The rod comes with the original bag with stitched in hang tag and original Heddon labeled red fiber tube (no cap) that has a light split near the middle. The wonderful medium to medium-fast action is a joy to cast and throws tight accurate loops with a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-4 and would be amenable to a Silk or Sylk line. Heddon Featherweights are becoming increasingly harder to find and #13 FWs are considered by some to be downright rare. Superb! $795

G.H. Howells ~ 7.5’ ~ 2/2 ~ 3 ¼ oz. ~ 54wt. ~ Serial No. 5315 ~ Mint Unfished (with provenance) ~ 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 the 15th rod built in 1986 and features an attractive shade of light honey-toned cane with 3x3 nodes, matched tips, brown silks tipped gold and a superbly executed varnish finish. Fine furnishings include bronze guides and smooth and tight fitting silicone bronze ferrules that give a satisfying pop when separated. 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 cigar grip that is covered in its original paper, a beautifully figured teak wood seat with screw U/L’ing hardware, petite exposed N/S WC and bronze folding ring HK. The rod comes with the original burgundy bag and labeled aluminum tube with the original owners name on the tube label. Howells’ rods remain in high demand and based on the accompanying letter of provenance, this one has never been casted or even had a line on it. Accordingly, I did not lawn cast it. The requisite “basement waggle” indicates that it has a smooth medium to medium-fast action and behaves in manner that is well-suited to the dry fly enthusiast. What a timeless piece of history and a wonderful example of the work of G.H. Howells! $3,995

R.L. Winston ~ 7.5' ~ 2/2 ~ 3 oz. ~ 4wt. ~ Serial No. 1041 ~ EXC+ (exceptions noted) ~ This hollow fluted classic from Winston was built in 1973 by Doug Merrick in the old San Francisco 3rd Street shop and features attractive light honey-toned cane, butterscotch silks tipped burgundy at the signature wraps, tip-top, HK and ferrule stations, quality Winston guides, hallmark wound-over duronze ferrules that fit smooth and tight and give a satisfying pop when separated and a nicely-executed varnish finish. There is a light variation in color of the wraps on the tip sections ferrule housings and in the length of the guide wraps on tip sections, indications that the rod was restored at some point in the past. There is a small black ink blotch on the butt section just below the signature wrap. A very faint ferule click can be felt when one of the tip sections is assembled and waggled. The business end of the butt section has a lightweight Wells cork grip/seat combo fitted with D/L’ing cap ring hardware, Winston-issue exposed WC and folding ring HK. There is come very light, and in my opinion, minor ridging on the cork. The rod information including the hollow-flute patent number are inked on the butt section. The rod comes with a red SF Winston bag and aluminum tube with SF Winston label. The light in the hand feel and sweet medium-fast action is well-suited for the dry fly enthusiast, especially when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-4. Classics built by this historically significant maker from this era are becoming harder to come by and are a real treat to fish with. Hurry on this one! $1,350

Winston ~ 7.5' ~ 2/2 ~ 3oz. ~ 4wt. ~ Serial No. 1751 ~ EXC ~ This sweet little wand crafted by Glenn Brackett in 1978, not long after the move from San Francisco to Twin Bridges, features attractive light honey-colored cane, tan silks with burgundy accent wraps at the ferrule stations, tip-tops signature wraps and HK and a beautifully executed glass smooth varnish finish.  The quality furnishings include a mildrum-style stripper, chrome snakes and tip tops and smooth and tight fitting Winston Duronze ferrules that give a satisfying pop when separated and feature the hallmark silk wrappings on the male ferrule housing and female ferrule.  The business end of the butt section is fitted with a cigar grip that shows some light ridging, nicely figured teakwood seat with D/L’ing N/S cap and ring hardware, petite N/S WC and folding ring HK.  The rod comes with the original red Winston labeled bag, no doubt left over form the San Francisco era, and Winston’s Twin Bridges, Montana labeled aluminum tube.  The brisk medium action is a joy to cast and handles beautifully when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach WF-4 and DT-4.  The taper is well-suited for close-in dry fly work but has plenty reserve power to punch out longer casts when called upon to do so.  This early Twin Bridges era wand is just another in a long line of superb offerings from the famous Western rod-maker. $1,795

R.L. Winston ~ 7.5' ~ 2/2 ~ 2 7/8 oz. ~ 4wt. ~ Serial No. 2153 ~ EXC ~ This sweet little Twin Bridges classic was crafted by Glenn Brackett in 1987 for gentleman with the last name of Kidd and was then sold to its current owner in 02005. This 2-owner rod features attractive light carmel-colored cane with 3 x 3 spiral nodes, translucent tan silks with burgundy accent wraps at the ferrule stations, tip-tops signature wraps and HK and a nicely executed glass smooth varnish finish. The quality furnishings include chrome guides and smooth and tight fitting Winston Duronze ferrules (wrapped in tan silk) that give a satisfying pop when separated. The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable cigar grip, screw D/L’ing seat with teak wood spacer, petite N/S WC and folding ring HK. The rod comes with the original red bag and antique brown Winston labeled aluminum tube with brass cap, collar and end. The sweet medium-fast action handles beautifully when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach WF-4 and DT-4. The taper is well-suited for close-in dry fly work but has some reserve power to punch out longer casts when called upon to do so. This Brackett-era Winny is just another in a long line of superb offerings from the famed Montana-maker. $1,695

SOLD OUT

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 $995

Carlin P201H ~ 8' ~ 3/2 ~ 4.2oz.~ 5wt. ~ Serial No. 1524 ~ EXC+/As New  ~ This one-owner rod from the Alaska shop of Far North Rodsmith’s Chris Carlin is a neat rendition of the popular Payne 201H.  It features attractive carmel-colored cane with golden with 3x3 golden nodes, matched tips, replica brown silks tipped yellow, Smoked nickel mildrum style stripper, snakes and tip tops, smooth and tight-fitting blued N/S ferrules that give a satisfying pop when separated and a perfectly executed glass-like varnish finish.  The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable modified cigar grip with tapered nose, nicely figured Spanish cedar seat with blued N/S D/L’ing cap and ring hardware and folding ring HK. There is some slight bluing loss on the reel sea hardware.   The rod comes with a custom-made bag with brass grommeted leather hang tab and aluminum tube with brass cap, collar and end complete with the maker’s label and rod information.  This rod has a wonderful medium to medium fast action designed for long casts and delicate presentations.  The rod performs admirably when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach WF/WT-5 and would be a fine choice for large and finicky spring creek trout. Superb! $1,395

Jenkins GA80 ~ 8' ~ 2/2 ~ 4.2oz. ~ 4/5wt. Serial No. 88 ~ As new ~ Rods from this well respected Rocky Mountain maker are widely regarded by the bamboo rod community as being among the best on the market.  This beautifully crafted one-owner rod features an attractive shade of oven-tempered blonde cane with 3x3 spiral golden nodes, matched tips, brown silks tipped gold, black stripper, snakes and tip-tops, smooth and tight fitting blued N/S Swiss-style ferrules, and an unparalleled varnish finish.  The business end of the butt section has a comfortable light cigar grip with tapered nose, the hallmark Cherry reel seat with formed nickel-silver cap and tapered ring, petite blued N/S WC and black folding ring HK.  The rod comes with the original high quality bag with hang tab and a heavy gauge full brass tube with the maker’s name engraved into the top.  The maker’s name is also engraved into the bottom of the butt cap.  This rod is pure joy to cast and the medium fast action lays out effortless loops with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-4, WF-5 and/or DT-5.  The owner indicates that he has lawn casted the rod only. Superb!! $1,650

H.L. Leonard Model 50 DF ~ 8' ~ 3/2 ~ 4 3/8oz. ~ 5/6wt. ~ EXC+ RS (exceptions noted) ~ This karma-laden classic was purchased by its current owner from Tim Zietak many years ago who indicated that it had likely been restored at the Leonard shop at some point in the past. It features an attractive shade of medium blonde cane with swelled butt, 3 x 3 spiral nodes, yellowish-gold silks tipped black with full intermediates, smoky white agate stripper housed in a silver frame, hardened steel snakes and tip tops, smooth and tight fitting N/S step-down ferrules (butt/mid connection give a resounding pop when separated, mid/tip connection does not), and a nicely executed glass smooth varnish finish. The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable cigar grip, teak-like butternut seat, the likes of which I have not seen before on a Leonard rod, screw D/L'ing seat hardware that carries the pre-fire Reg. US Pat Off die stamp, petite N/S WC and folding ring HK. The rod comes in the original tan bag with hang tag and original brass capped aluminum tube. The wonderful medium action throws a sweet Cortland 444 Peach DT-5/WF-6 line and would also be very amenable to a silk/Sylk line. This timeless classic is about as good as it gets for the Leonard enthusiast and needs to find its way back to the stream….soon! $1,295

H.L. Leonard #50H ~ 8' ~ 3/2 ~ 4 5/8oz. ~ 7wt. ~ Serial No. 2963 ~ EXC+ (exceptions noted) ~  This quality-made post-fire Midland Park era Leonard features attractive blonde cane with swelled butt, old gold silks tipped brown, chrome stripper with brown ceramic insert, chrome snakes and tip-top, smooth and tight-fitting Leonard N/S step-down ferrules that give a satisfying pop when separated, and a nicely executed varnish finish.  One tip is down ¾” that, IMHO does not affect performance.  The tip top guide on the full length tip is starting to loosen on its station and should be reset.  The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable flared palm cigar grip, butternut seat with U/L'ing screw and slide hood hardware, petite N/S WC, and folding ring HK.  The slide hood cap carries the H. L. Leonard die stamp.  The rod comes with the original yellow bag and original aluminum tube with brass bottom, cap and collar, and red/silver Midland Park era label fully intact.  The wonderful medium-fast action is well-suited for dry fly work, dry and dropper rigs, and terrestrials and for me, delivers a sweet loop with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-6.  It would be right at home in 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. $995

H.L. Leonard #66 ~ 8’ ~ 2/2 ~ 3.8 oz. ~ 5wt. ~ EXC (exceptions noted) ~ This early (pre-WW-II) pre-fire classic is a favorite among Leonard rod enthusiasts and features light honey toned cane with swelled butt, deep burgundy silks, agate stripper, hardened steel snakes and tip-tops, and smooth and tight fitting Leonard step-down ferrules with witness marks that give a resounding pop when separated and a nicely executed varnish finish. The female ferrule on the butt carries the pat stamp just below the welt. One tip is down 3/8” and has a clear 5/8” protective wrap between the 4th and 5th snake guide. The wrap, which was expertly applied, appears to be protecting a hook dig when viewed under magnification. The cane seems solid with no open voids noted when the tip is flexed and I would have no reservations about fishing this tip with full force. The business end of the butt section is fitted with a cigar grip, D/L'ing N/S wedding band cap and ring seat over a butternut spacer, petite exposed N/S WC and folding ring HK. The Leonard Rod HL Leonard Rod Co. makers and Reg U.S. Pat Off die stamp is clearly struck into the side of the butt cap.. The rod comes with the original olive bag with stiffener (hang tag included, but spearated from bag) and original slender brass capped tube. This hard to find classic has a silky smooth medium to medium-fast action that I found very pleasing when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-5. It is a perfect all-around trout rod that is well-suited for dry fly work, dry and dropper rigs, and tossing hoppers and terrestrials. This superb effort from the famous world renown maker could become your new go to rod! $1,095 $995

Payne 200 ~ 8' ~ 3/2 ~ 3.8oz. ~ 4wt. ~ EXC (exception noted) ~ This original Jim Payne Classic was polished out by Smithsonian restorationist Fred Kretchman who also replaced a missing HK and one snake guide features. It features a gorgeous shade of light honey-colored cane, java silk wraps tipped gold, red agate stripper housed in a blued N/S frame, hardened steel snakes and tip-tops smooth and tight fitting blued Payne step-down ferrules that give a satisfying pop when separated and a nicely executed polished out varnish finish. Also included is a bonus third tip equipped with a red agate tip-top guide that is 4” short at the tip top end. There is some bluing loss on the furnishings. The business end of the butt section has a cigar grip, nicely figured Spanish cedar seat with blued N/S D/L'ing cap and ring hardware, petite blued exposed WC and folding ring HK. The butt cap caries the E.F. PAYNE ROD E.F. PAYNE ROD CO MAKERS die stamp on the butt cap. The rod comes with the original bag, sans hang tag, and original Payne-issue brass-capped aluminum tube sans label. The rod has a comfortable medium action and throws a tight loop when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-4 9it will also handle a 5, if asked). This hard to find smooth casting classic would be a welcomed addition to anyone’s quiver. $2,795

Redwing Fly Rods “Para 15” ~ 8’ ~ 2/2 ~ 4oz. ~ 5/6wt. ~ EXC+ (exception noted) ~ Check out this neat rendition of the popular PHY Para 15 from the bench of Wisconsin’s Joe Balestrieri. It features richly flamed cane with 2 x 2 golden nodes, matched tips, clear silks (burgundy at the ferrule stations), smoked sliver mildrum-style stripper, light wire silver snakes, black tip-tops, blued, super –Z- style N/S ferrules give a satisfying ‘pop’ when separated, however a ferrule tick can be felt in one of the tips, and a nicely executed varnish finish. The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable ventilated grip, attractive and highly figured black walnut seat with blued D/L’ing nickel silver cap and ring hardware. The rod comes with a sturdy hooded bag and black powder-coated aluminum tube with brass end, cap and collar. The sweet parabolic action provides smooth line delivery and offers a nice blend of power and distance. I really liked it with Cortland 444 Peach DT-5 and WF-6. This para is another in a long line of quality-crafted and affordable rods from the respected Wisconsin maker. $525

Vadalia Rodworks ~ 8’ ~ 3/2 ~ 5.3oz. ~ 5wt. ~ EXC ~ Check out this offering from Phil Smith at VRW.  Mr. Smith has been handcrafting bamboo rods in his West Virginia shop since 2003.   This custom built rod is based on a Payne 201 and features attractive flamed cane 3 around golden nodes, brown silks tipped gold, mildrum style stripper, silver snakes and tip tops,  smooth and tight-fitting N/S ferrules that give a resounding pop when separated, and a nicely-executed varnish finish.  The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable western style grip, nicely figured hardwood seat with D/L’ing N/S cap and ring hardware, petite N/S WC and folding ring HK.  The rod comes with a soft bushed cotton bag and aluminum tube with makers logo.  The responsive medium-fast action throws a tight loop, for me best when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-5 and would be an excellent choice for dry fly work.  This finely-tuned rod from the Appalachian region is an excellent value and would make a nice addition to anyone’s quiver. $625 $525

Paul H. Young Parabolic 15 ~ 8’ ~ 2/2 ~ 4oz. ~ 5/6wt. ~ EXC (exceptions noted) ~ This Detroit-made classic from the Paul H. Young Co was built c. 1980, likely by Jack Young and may possibly have received a varnish over-coated at some point in the past. It features attractive flamed cane, brown silks, carbaloy-style stripper, black snakes and tip tops, smooth & tight fitting oxidized Super -Z- style N/S ferrules that give a strong pop when separated and a nicely executed varnish finish. The rod features a dry tip (the rod weighs in a svelte 4oz. with this tip) and a wet tip (4.1oz.). I noted a few resorcinol glue lines on the tips, not atypical for PHY rods. The business end of the butt section has a comfortable grip that slightly and gradually increases in diameter from back to front, black screw D/L’ing seat, cork spacer and a HK loop. The side of the butt cap carries the Paul H. Young Co. Detroit – Mich die stamp. The rod comes with a non-original tan hooded bag and unlabeled aluminum tube that is likely original. This fine casting instrument has a medium-fast parabolic action that throws a smooth and tight loop with minimal effort. This model was typically rated for a DT-6 silk line, but it was best for me 9with the dry tip) when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-5. This cool piece of Michigan history is ready for immediate use on your favorite stream. $2,295

Barney & Berry ~ 8.5' ~ 3/2 ~ 4.4 oz ~ 5wt. ~Serial No. 7255 ~ EXC+ RS ~ Barney & Berry contacted Winchester/Edwards to build rods bearing the B&B name into the 1902s, and was eventually acquired by Remington Arms. This early 1920s classic was reportedly refinished by Steve Blake and features attractive carmel-colored cane with swelled butt, gold silks tipped red and black, red agate stripper, hardened steel snakes, red agate tip-tops, smooth and tight fitting N/S ferrules that give a solid pop when separated and a nicely-executed varnish finish. The business end of the butt section is fitted with a cigar grip, screw D/L’ing seat with cedar barrel spacer, exposed WC, and folding ring HK. The butt cap carries the Barney & Berry Made in USA (with serial number) die stamp, nicely struck. The rod comes with comes with what is believed to be the original olive canvas bag and an early Heddon aluminum tube. It has a light in the had feel and a wonderful medium-slow action that for me, is best with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-5. It was also easily handle a 6 in WF/DT/TT formats if asked and would be a good candidate for a silk line. This would be a nice find for the Winchester/Edwards enthusiast and cool piece of Century old Americana. $595 $495

Edwards “Quadrate” #50 ~ 8.5' ~ 3/2 ~ 4.9oz. ~ 6/7wt. ~ EXC+ RS ~ This Mt Carmel, CT quad was nicely restored (not sure who did the work) and features attractive shade of lightly flamed cane with golden nodes, red silks tipped black with alternating signatures wraps on the butt section, red agate stripper, black snakes and tip-tops that appear to be new replacements, smooth and easy working blued N/S ferrules that give a nice pop when separated and ai nicely executed glass smooth varnish finish. The business end of the butt section is fitted with a light cigar grip brown pyralin seat with matching scree U/L’ing hardware, black grip checks and a folding ring HK. Inked on the rod in white script is #50. From the famous writings of the late Martin Keane comes the following passage… “Don’t draw any conclusions about an Edwards Quad rod until you’ve actually fished it under normal conditions – wiggling it around in some dealer’s showroom will tell you absolutely nothing. The Quad is mighty different when working under the weight of a properly fitted line. It is an amazing instrument with great power-and considerably more delicacy- than most anglers imagine.” The rod comes with a new tan bag and replacement water-tite aluminum tube. This strong medium taper would be well suited for windy condition and larger than average quarry including trout or and is prced for an immediate sale at… $795 $695

Edwards “Quadrate” #50 ~ 8.5' ~ 3/2 ~ 5.5oz. ~ 7/8wt. ~ EXC- (exceptions noted) ~ This Mt Carmel, CT quad was presented as being all original and features attractive shade of lightly flamed cane with golden nodes, red silks tipped black with alternating signatures wraps on the butt section, black stripper, hardened steel snakes and tip-tops, tight fitting blued N/S ferrules (butt/mid give a nice pop, mid/tips do not) and a varnish finish the is softening and has some nicks and bag marks. One tip is ½” short and a few guide wraps look to have been replaced. The business end of the butt section is fitted with a light cigar grip black pyralin seat with matching screw U/L’ing hardware, black grip checks and a folding ring HK. From the famous writings of the late Martin Keane comes the following passage… “Don’t draw any conclusions about an Edwards Quad rod until you’ve actually fished it under normal conditions – wiggling it around in some dealer’s showroom will tell you absolutely nothing. The Quad is mighty different when working under the weight of a properly fitted line. It is an amazing instrument with great power-and considerably more delicacy- than most anglers imagine.” The rod comes with a tan bag that is likely original and replacement leather tube (cap strap is broken). This strong medium taper would be well suited for windy condition and larger than average quarry including trout. The rod could use some TLC and is an excellent candidate for a redo. $425

W&M Stream & Lake Model SL8642 ~ 8.5' ~ 3/2 ~ 5.3oz. ~ 6wt. ~ EXC- (exceptions noted) ~ The Stream & Lake replaced the very popular Granger Champion circa 1947 and become one of W&M's best sellers. A bonus 3rd tip section was made for this Rocky Mounty classic by Seattle’s Jeff Pope using old Granger stock. He also replaced 2 wraps on the mid. The rod features rich ammonia-treated carmel-colored cane with swelled butt, red silks, typical W&M furnishings for this model that include a red agate stripper, hardened steel snakes, and bronze tip tops, N/S ferrules with witness marks and a solid varnish finish that was likely buffed out at some point in the past as evidence by the faint rod model markings on the butt section. The tips have a light set and the ferrule fit on both original tips sections is a touch loose and both tips will rotate while 100% seated to the mid using light thumb/forefinger pressure which also results in a faint click. The ferule fit on the 3rd, non-original tip is tight with no click. This tip has a ¾” repair wrap proximal to the second snake guide. 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 tan bag and unlabeled era-correct aluminum tube that may or may not be original. The smooth medium action tosses tight loops with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-6 (and WF-7 if desired) with ample power for long accurate line delivery. If you’ve been after an affordable 8.5’ W&M/Granger, give this one some serious consideration. $325

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. $250 $195

Heddon #17 Black Beauty ~ 9’ ~ 3/2 ~ 2 1/2 F ~ 5oz. ~ 6/7wt. ~ EXC+ RS (exception noted) ~ This post classic era rod from the famous Dowagiac, Michigan Maker was beautifully restored by Michigan’s Winston Binney.  Mr. Binney formerly finished out rods for his friend Larry Foster, the late President of the H.L. Leonard Rod Company, during the time in which Mr. Foster owned the Leonard name.  He’s been restoring bamboo rods as well as assembling graphite & glass rods since the late 1960's.  The Black Beauty was Heddon’s most popular rod and features an attractive shade of browntone cane with swelled butt, jet black silks tipped orange, black stripper, hardened steel snakes and tip tops, smooth working black ferrules that give a soft pop when separated and a nicely executed varnish finish.  Both tips hav sets that do not affect line flow or performance. 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 black aluminum tube with gold foil Heddon label.  The rod is has a comfortable medium action and tosses a fine loop, for me best with a Cortland 444 Peach WF-7. This powerhouse of a rod would be great choice for larger dries, hoppers, nymphin, froggin or mousein. $295

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 $250

Heddon #35 ~ 9' ~ 3/2 ~ 2 1/2F ~ 5.4oz. ~ 6/7wt. Serial No. 1516 ~ EXC ~ This rarely seen 1st generation (c. 1920’s) classic was Heddon’s top rod at the time. The red inked serial number (1516) is still present, yet faint, on the butt section.  It one features a beautiful shade of light browntone cane with swelled butt, old gold silks with elegant old gold and B/W jasper intermediates, reversed twist hardened steel snakes (the stripper is also a snake guide) and tip-tops, smooth and tight fitting N/S ferrules that give a soft pop when separated and a nicely executed varnish finish that has stood the test of time.  The business end of the butt section has a modified cigar grip fashioned from 1/4 inch cork rings with tapered perfection nose, full metal seat with D/L'ing slide band hardware and exposed WC.  Heddon is engraved into the bottom of the butt cap. The original acetate label is approximately 85% intact on the butt section and reads Heddon “Tempered Bamboo” with the red inked serial number on the flat above it.  It comes with an olive canvas bag with stitched in hang tab and aluminum tube with the early “Heddon’s Dowagiac” engraved into the top of the cap.  The tube cap has some hairline cracks that do not affect use.  Both bag and tube are believed to be original.  One tip section is about a half shade lighter than the other.  Of noteworthy interest, a previous 1st gen #35 I sold (Serial #1527) exhibited the exact same characteristic, leading me to believe it was possibly done to differentiate one tip from the other.  The comfortable medium action is a joy to cast and throws a sweet loop with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-6 and WF-7.  I can only presume that it would really sing if paired with a silk line.  This historically significant Dowagiac, Michigan classic has a unique bond to yesteryear and is a super find for the Heddon collector or any classic rod aficionado. $595 $495

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