Rod Rating Designations and Abbreviations

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SOLD

Kastelin “McClanes Wading Rod” ~ 7’ ~ 2/2 ~ 4.34oz. ~ 5wt ~ SN 039 ~ New~ This offering from the bench of Ludington, Michigan’s Jim Kastelin is based on a proprietary 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 light carmel-color cane, translucent tan silks tipped black, black guides and tip tops, smooth and tight fitting N/S ferrules that give a satisfying pop when separated and a smooth varnish finish.  If you look hard enough, you may find a couple of minor glue line inconsistencies and the assembled length is 7’ 1 ½”.  The business end of the butt section has a comfortable light reversed wells grip, cork seat with dual slide band hardware, and exposed WC.  The rod comes with a flannel 3-compartment bag and brass capped metal tube.  The pleasant medium to medium-fast action is perfect for dry fly work and tosses nice loops with a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT- 5.  This new rod is being offered at an attractive introductory price. $395

H.L. Leonard 38 ~ 7' ~ 2/2 ~ 2.9 oz. ~ 3/4wt ~ Serial No. 409 EXC ~ This sweet casting post-fire classic features attractive medium blonde cane with swelled butt, 3 around nodes, red silks, mildrum stripper, hardened steel snakes, smooth and tight fitting N/S Leonard step down ferrules and a nicely executed varnish finish. There are light sets in the tip sections that do not affect line flow or performance and the guides could use a cleaning. The business end of the butt section has a petite cigar grip, that shows some ridging, butternut seat with D/Ling cap and wedding band hardware, petite N/S WC and folding ring HK. The butt cap carries the post-fire Leonard die stamp. It comes with the original bag (with stiffener) and vintage replacement tube. The rod is a joy to cast and has a comfortable medium action that throws a tight loop when paired with either a DT-3 or WF-4 line. $1,195

SOLD

Payne 98 (from blank) ~ 7’ ~ 2/2 ~ 3.2oz.  4wt ~ NEW ~ This neat little rendition of the famous Payne 98 was recently completed (May 2025) on a set of Tim Zietak blanks by Knoxville’s Rich Margiotta.  It features attractive carmel colored cane, java silks tipped golden yellow with purple tagging, red agate stripper housed in a black nickel frame, Snakebrand black nickel guides and tip tops, smooth working blued ferrules that give a soft pop when separated and a nicely executed varnish finish.  The business end of the butt section has an extra flora grade cigar grip, Spanish cedar seat with blued D/L’ing cap and ring hardware, petite blued WC and folding ring HK.  The rod comes with an olive twill bag with stiffener and aluminum tube with gold fittings.  The sweet medium-fast action throws a tight loop with a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-4 and would well suited for dry fly work and small to mid-size streams. $595

Don Recker “FE Thomas Fairy" ~ 7' ~ 2/2 ~ 3.5 oz. ~ 3 wt. ~ Serial No. 1130 ~ As New ~ Don is a retired machinist who also worked as the maintenance supervisor at the local high school near Fort Jennings, Ohio. His fine linep of classic taper bamboo rods was a huge hit coast-to coast.   Unfortunately, he is no longer is unable to build.  This finely tuned wand, built in 2011, is based on a FE Thomas Fairy taper and features lightly flamed carmel-colored cane with 3 around golden nodes, matched tips, clear silks tipped black (one turn of black at the tip–top guide for Tip #1 and two turns for Tip #2, light carmel agate stripper housed in a N/S frame, light wire chrome snakes and tip–tops, tight fitting Bailey Woods N/S ferrules that give a nice pop when separated, and perfectly executed glass-like varnish finish. The business end of the butt section has a comfortable cigar grip with lightly tapered nose, beautifully figured buckeye burl seat, D/L’ing N/S cap and ring hardware, petite WC and HK loop.  The rod comes with a soft fish print cloth bag and aluminum tube.   This light-line wand has a brisk medium-fast action perfect for close in work on small streams and ‘cricks.  I liked it with a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-3.  I do not think this rod has seen the water. Superbly Made in the USA. It comes from the collection of Wisconsin Fly Fishing legend Lloyd “Duke” Andrews. $895 $795

Thomas & Thomas Special Trouter ~ 7' ~ 2/2 ~ 2.96oz. ~ 4wt. ~ Serial No. 3771 ~ As New ~ This quality offering from the famed New England maker was built circa 1981, most likely by Msrs. Dorsey and Maxwell and is best described by these passages from a 1979 T&T catalog: "We designed the Special Trouter to meet a two-fold requirement. We have long recognized the need for a superior quality bamboo rod - one that truly excels in its class - that is within reach of those anglers with a special budget."  “Powerful and accurate, these Trouters will meet the test as well as any, and the graceful flowing action of these rods is matched only by their lightness and their trim lines."  This sweet wand features beautiful light ash-colored impregnated cane, 3 around spiral nodes, and T&T's hallmark translucent lemon silk wraps (rootbeer brown at the tip-tops, and ferrule stations).  Quality T&T furnishings including chrome guides and smooth & tight fitting Swiss N/S ferrules that give a satisfying pop when separated.   The business end of the butt section has a comfortable cigar grip that continues down to form the cork seat with D/L'ing  cap & ring hardware. The T&T company logo is stamped into the side of the butt cap.  The rod comes with the original light tan bag and unlabeled metal tube.  The comfortable medium to medium-fast action is perfect for small to medium-size stream dry fly work and throws a tight loop with a Cortland 444 Peach WF-4.  This is one of the nicest examples of this model I’ve seen in quite some time that has never seen the water.  It would certainly make a wonderful addition to any arsenal and is an exceptionally nice find for the T&T enthusiast. $1,395

Union Hardware ~ 7’ ~ 2/2 ~ 3.7oz. ~ 5wt ~ EXC ~ The Union Hardware Company operations date back to the 1860s in Torrington, CT near the Naugatuck River The manufacture of steel fishing rods began around the turn of the Century followed by the manufacture of fishing reels circa 1920s. Split bamboo rods were added to their lineup of products in the mid 1920s.  This rod may have been built by Thomas or Edwards and features carmel colored cane with swelled butt, light brown silks tipped gold, black guides, smooth and tight fitting ferrules that give a satisfying pop when separated, and a nicely executed varnish finish that has a few dings ang light bag marks.  The business end of the butt section has a comfortable modified Wells grip, cedar barrel seat with D/L’ing cap and ring hardware, exposed WC and folding ring HK.  The UH acetate label remains fully intact withing the signature wraps.  It comes with what is likely the original hooded brown canvas bag and a replacement PVC tube. The easy throwing medium fast action tosses a nice loop with a Cortland 444 Peach WF-5.  This cool piece of Americana is the nicest example of a Union Hardware I’ve seen and would be a welcome addition to your small/mid-sized stream quiver. $350

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 $150

Don Recker “Dickerson 7613” ~ 7.5' ~ 2/2 ~ 3.99 oz. ~ 5 wt. ~ Serial No. 1128~ As New ~ Don is a retired machinist who also worked as the maintenance supervisor at the local high school near Fort Jennings, Ohio. His fine linep of classic taper bamboo rods was a huge hit coast-to coast.   Unfortunately, he is no longer is unable to build.  This finely tuned wand, built in 2011, is based on the popular Dickerson 7613 taper and features lightly flamed carmel-colored cane with 2 around golden nodes, matched tips, clear silks tipped black (one turn of black at the tip–top guide for Tip #1 and two turns for Tip #2, light carmel agate stripper housed in a N/S frame, light wire chrome snakes and tip–tops, tight fitting Bailey Woods N/S ferrules that give a nice pop when separated, and perfectly executed glass-like varnish finish. The business end of the butt section has a comfortable cigar grip with lightly tapered nose, beautifully figured maple burl seat, D/L’ing N/S cap and ring hardware, petite WC and HK loop.  The rod comes with a soft fish print cloth bag and aluminum tube.  The brisk medium fast-action is perfect for dry fly work and tosses an effortless loop when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-5. This rod may have seen the water a few times but remains in like new condition. It comes from the collection of Wisconsin Fly Fishing legend Lloyd “Duke” Andrews. $895 $795

SOLD

Kastelin 7614 ~ 7.5’ ~ 2/2 ~ 4.34oz. ~ 5/6wt ~ Serial No. 038 ~ New ~ From the bench of Ludington, Michigan’s Jim Kastelin is this new offering based on the famous Dickerson 7614 taper.  Jim was a Transportation Supervisor for the Ludington Public School system and starting building bamboo rods in 2006, mostly for use on his home river, the Pere Marquette.  This one features an attractive shade of light carmel-color cane, burgundy silks, bronze guides, black tip tops, smooth and tight fitting N/S ferrules that give a satisfying pop when separated and a smooth varnish finish.  If you look hard enough, you may find a couple of minor glue line inconsistencies on the butt section, the oxidation on the female ferrule is a bit uneven and the assembled length is 7’ 6 5/8”.  The business end of the butt section has a comfortable cigar grip, hardwood seat with U/L’ing screw and slide hood hardware, hardwood butt cap and exposed WC.  The rod comes with a 2-compartment bag and brass capped metal tube.  The pleasant medium to medium-fast action is perfect for dry fly work and tosses nice loops, Tip # 1 with a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT- 5 and Tip #2 with a WF-6.  This new rod is being offered at an attractive introductory price. $350

H.L. Leonard Duracane #755 ~ 7.5' ~ 2/2 ~ 3.8 oz. ~ 4/5wt. ~ As New ~ This popular offering from the H.L. Leonard Rod Company features an attractive shade of honey-toned impregnated cane with 3 x 3 spiral nodes, brown silks tipped black, black guides, and smooth and tight fitting blued N/S ferrules which give a satisfying pop when separated.  The business end of the butt section has a comfortable cigar grip, black D/L'ing scree and slide hood seat with walnut spacer, petite blued WC and folding ring HK. The side of the blued butt cap carries the H. L. Rod Co. die stamp.  The rod comes with the original light brown bag with stiffener and grass grommeted leather hang tab and unlabeled aluminum tube.  This sweet casting wand has a comfortable medium to medium-fast action that is well suited for dry fly work when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-4 or WF-5 (I prefer the 4).  Brown wrap Duracanes have long had quite a dedicated following and deservedly so.  This one is a fine example of that I do not believe has seen the water!  What a super find for the Leonard aficionado. $1,095

McDowell ~ 7.5' ~ 2/2 ~ 4.27oz. ~ 5wt. Serial No. 2003-09 ~ As New ~ This beautifully crafted rod from the bench of Oregon’s Chris McDowell (Blitzen River Rods) is based on a proprietary taper and features attractive honey flamed cane with 3x3 golden nodes, matched tips, brown silks tipped black, agate stripper housed in bronze nickel frame, black snakes and tip-tops, 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 cigar grip, beautifully figures hardwood seat with silver D/L'ing screw and slide hood hardware and petite blued WC.  The rod comes with tan bag and black wrinkly-finish metal tube with gold cap and collar.  The sweet medium to medium-fast action is perfect for dry fly work and delicate presentations.  It really sang for me when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-4, but will take a 5 with no questions asked.  This attractive wand, nicely crafted in the USA, would be a welcome addition to anyone’s quiver. $895

Orvis Battenkill ~ 7.5’ ~ 2/2 ~ 4oz. ~ 5wt. ~ Serial No. 36939 ~ EXC ~  This 1964 Manchester, VT classic was made by two of Orvis’ best, Cal Skinner and George Reid and features richly hued impregnated cane with golden nodes, Orvis brown silks, fine Orvis furnishings including a black mildrum-style stripper, hardened steel snakes and tip-tops and tight fitting blued N/S ferrules which give a resounding pop when separated.  The owner’s name and AFTMA 7 are also inked on the rod.  The business end of the butt section has a comfortable cigar grip with tapered nose, aluminum screw and slide hood D/L’ing seat with a walnut spacer, exposed blued WC (bluing is worn) and HK loop.  The rod comes with the original gray Orvis bag and original Orvis aluminum tube sans label.  The comfortable medium-fast action throws tight loops that for me, was best with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-5.  Older Orvis rods, especially those from the late 50s and early 60s, are highly sought-after for their superb performance on the stream.  This would make a welcome addition to anyone’s quiver… and the price ain’t bad either! $595

Orvis Battenkill ~ 7.5’ ~ 2/2 ~ 3 7/8oz. ~ H.D.G (6) ~ Serial No. 85183 ~ As New (exception noted) ~ This Manchester, VT classic was made by Ron White circa 1981 and features an attractive shade of light honey impregnated cane with 3 around golden nodes, Orvis brown silks, fine Orvis furnishings including chrome guides and smooth and tight-fitting blued N/S ferrules which give a satisfying pop when separated.  The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable light cigar grip, aluminum D/L’ing screw & slide hood seat with walnut spacer, exposed WC and folding ring HK.  The rod comes with the original tan Orvis bag and original Orvis gray aluminum tube with green and silver foil label that includes rod info and hexagonal cap with rod info engraved into the top. 3 7/8oz. is inked on the rod which was confirmed using a digital scale (3.89 oz.).  The tube label indicates 3 5/8oz. (most likely a factory oversight).  The wonderful medium-fast action throws a tight loop, and although rated by Orvis as a 6, it throws effortlessly for me when paired with a with a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-5.  Orvis rods from this era are extremely popular and are well known for their quality-build and excellent performance.  I’m not sure this one has ever seen the water!  What a super find for the Orvis enthusiast. $1,095

South Bend No. 291 ~ 7.5' ~ 4/1 ~4.87 oz.~ 5/6wt. ~ EXC ~ This 1940's (post WW-II) pack rod from the midwest tackle giant features medium blonde cane, olive silks tipped red, Mildrum stripper, hardened steel snakes and tip-top, smooth and tight fitting SB plated ferrules and a nicely executed varnish finish that remains in excellent condition.  The business end of the btt section has the ventilated Comficient grip with gold foil label 100% intact, rootbeer metal seat with D/L’ing screw and sliding hood hardware, exposed WC and folding ring HK. The SB acetate label is approximately 98% intact on the butt section. The rod comes with the original properly labeled bag and red fiber tube with partial label. The medium to medium-fast action throws a nice loop and will easily handle a 5 or a 6.  This affordable stream-ready classic is a great find for the pack rod enthusiast $295

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

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 $1,495

SOLD

T.L. Zietak 290e ~ 7’9” ~ 2/2 ~ 4.44oz. ~ 5wt. ~ As New (exception noted) ~ This custom made rendition of the popular Garrison 209e from the bench of Pittsburgh's Tim Zietak was reported to be one of Mr. Zietak’s personal rods that he recently cleaned up and applied a fresh coat of varnish.  It features carmel-colored cane with some inconsistent glue lines, spiral nodes spacing configured in the firing order of a six cylinder engine, translucent tan silks (chocolate brown at the WC and ferrule stations) that are almost clear in appearance, chrome guides, smooth and tight fitting N/S ferrules that give a solid pop when separated, and a nicely executed new varnish finish.   The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable Garrison style grip, nicely figured hardwood/cork seat with silver D/L’ing cap and ring hardware and wound over WC.  The rod comes with a tan bag and metal tube.  The sweet medium-fast action throws a tight loop that was best for me when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-5.  I’m not sure this rod has seen the water since it was re-varnished. $695

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

Orvis Battenkill II ~ 8’ ~ 2/1 (made that way)~ 4 3/8 oz. ~ G.B.F (8) ~ Serial No. 49670 ~ EXC ~ Many Orvis enthusiasts believe that the best Orvis rods were produced during the 1950s and 60s. This 1968 offering was built during the Bill Young/Dale Brown era 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, aluminum screw D/L’ing screw and slide band seat with walnut spacer, exposed WC and HK loop. The rod comes with the original gray bag and original Orvis-issue aluminum tube with blue and 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 DT-6 and WF-7. This quality-made multi-purpose wand from the famous Vermont purveyor of fine tackle, would be right at home tossing a dry fly, nymph, a dry/dropper rig, hopper, streamer, or bugger. $495

Spalding “Jack Scott" Special ~ 8' ~ 3/2 ~ 5oz. ~ 6wt. ~ EXC- (exceptions noted) ~ This sweet casting rod is believed to be an Edwards-made Bristol-era classic and features carmel colored cane with swelled butt, brown silks, carbaloy stripper, hardened steel snakes and tip tops, tight fitting N/S ferrules and a varnish finish that appears to have been over-coated at some point in the past.  The mid-section is 1/4" short with no signs of breakage so apparently made that way, tip section #1 is 1" short and Tip section #2 is 3/4" short and has a light set.  The business end of the butt section is fitted with a reversed half wells grip, screw D/L'ing seat with black metal insert, exposed silver WC and folding ring HK.  The rod comes an Army green 3-compartment bag (hole at the bottom of the butt section compartment is taped) and unlabeled aluminum tube with taped bottom and pressure fit cap.  The sweet medium action really sings when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-6.  E.W. Edwards & Sons was considered one of America's finest and most honorable rod building businesses and their fine lineup of quality-made rods are still highly sought after.  This one has plenty of old world charm and can be fished as is, but would really benefit from a redo. $395 $295

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R.L. Winston ~ 8.5' ~ 2/2 ~ 4 3/4 oz. ~ 6wt ~ SN 5907 ~ EXC-(exceptions noted) ~ This early hollowbuilt San Francisco Winny classic was built in 1940 by Lew Stoner and Red Loskot in the original Bryant Street shop on and appears to have been rewrapped and/or over-coated as evidenced by the shiny newish looking wraps and varnish, likely done by Winston. The rod features an attractive shade of light carmel-colored cane, putty silks tipped burgundy at the HK, signature wraps, ferrule stations and tip tops, mildrum stripper followed by two smaller diameter bronze strippers on the butt, chrome snakes and tip tops and smooth working ferrules with the hallmark putty silk overwrapping on the male and female housings. The ferules give a light pop when separated. One tip section is an inch short, apparently at the tip top end, and a faint ferrule tick can be felt when the full length tip is in use. There is also an inch long protective wrap, likely added when the rod was re-wrapped, on the butt section that appear to be covering a glue line inconsistency. The business end of the butt section is fitted with a modified wells grip, screw D/L’ing bakelite seat, exposed bakelite WC and folding ring HK. The rod comes with a rose colored SF Winston-labeled bag and aluminum tube, sans label. The smooth, medium to medium fast-action throws a tight loop, for me best with a Cortland Peach DT-6. This historically significant rod is a super find for the SF Winston enthusiast. $995 $795

W&M Stream & Lake Model SL8642 ~ 8.5' ~ 3/2 ~ 5.1oz. ~ 5/6wt. ~ EXC  ~ The Stream & Lake replaced the very popular Granger Champion circa 1947 and become one of W&M's best sellers.  This one was restored (or at received a light varnish overcoat) at some point in its past as evidenced by the witness mark on the butt section ferrule being 1 flat off.  Nonetheless, whoever did the work did a really nicely job.  It features rich ammonia-treated carmel-colored cane with swelled butt, 3x3 nodes, red silks, W&M furnishings include a mildrum stripper, hardened steel snakes and tip tops, smooth and tight fitting N/S ferrules with witness marks that give a soft pop when separated and a solid varnish finish with original rod model markings on the butt section.  The business end of the butt section has a comfortable reversed half wells grip, patented internal U/L metal seat with proper W&M stampings and exposed WC.  The rod comes with a replacement hooded bag and a replacement aluminum tube.  The smooth medium action tosses tight loops with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-5/WF-6 with ample power for long accurate line delivery.  If you’ve been after an affordable 8.5’ W&M/Granger, this one should garner some serious consideration. $395

Cross “The Cross Rod” ~ 8’8” ~ 3/2 ~ 4.9oz. ~ 6wt. ~ EXC RS (exceptions noted) ~ This Lynn, MA classic was reportedly restored by Michael Sinclair. The mid and tip sections are shorter than the butt section by 1/8” and 3/8”, respectively.  It is possible that this rod started out as 9’er and ended up at 8’8” post restoration.  It features attractive medium blonde cane, deep red silks tipped black with full intermediates, red agate stripper, hardened steel snakes and tip tops, smooth and tight fitting N/S ferrules that give a nice pop when separated, and nicely executed fresh varnish finish.  Both tip section ferrules are loose on their stations and as a result, a ferule click can be felt.  The business end of the butt section has a comfortable cigar grip, metal seat with D/L’ing ring and pocket hardware, and exposed WC.  The rod comes with replacement tan bag and possibly era correct metal tube, sans cap.  The rod has a classic medium action capable of throwing a lotta line, that for me, was best with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-6.  These venerable Cross classics are becoming harder to find.  Add it to your collection for… $295 $225

SOLD

Goodwin Granger Victory Model GV9053 ~ 9' ~ 3/2 ~ 5 3/4oz. ~ 7/8wt. ~ EXC+ RS  ~ The Victory was the workhorse of the Granger lineup.  This not oft seen 9053 Colorado classic features rich carmel colored cane with swelled butt, 3 x 3 nodes, B/O jasper silks double tipped in black silk, fine Granger-issue guides tight-fitting NS ferrules that give that hallmark Granger pop when separated, and a new varnish finish that has a couple nicks and smudges.  The business end of the butt section has a comfortable reverse half wells grip and is fitted with the patented internal U/L metal seat with nicely struck Goodwin Granger stampings, and an exposed WC.  The uplock mechanism works smooth and easy.  The rod comes with the original tan bag and unlabeled metal tube that may or may not be original (my guess is that it is not).  The medium-fast action throws tight loops when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-7 or WF/DT-8 (I prefer the DT-7).  This affordably-priced rod would be right at home for jacks and landlocks and also a good choice for large terrestrials, streamers and dry/dropper fishing and/or where the wind blows and often. $295

Goodwin Granger Victory Model GV9053 ~ 9' ~ 3/2 ~ 6.2oz. ~ 7/8wt. ~ EXC (exceptions noted) ~ The Victory was the workhorse of the Granger lineup.  This not oft seen 9053 Colorado classic features rich carmel colored cane with swelled butt, 3 x 3 nodes, B/O jasper silks double tipped in black silk, fine Granger-issue guides tight-fitting NS ferrules that give that hallmark Granger pop when separated, and a solid varnish finish that was touched up, as were the wraps at some point in the past and has a few nicks, hook dings, and smudges.  The business end of the butt section has a reverse half wells grip and is fitted with the patented internal U/L metal seat with nicely struck Goodwin Granger stampings, and an exposed WC.  The uplock mechanism works smooth and easy.  The rod comes with a quality replacement bag with grommeted leather hag tab and era correct replacement tube.  The stout medium-fast action throws a ton of line when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-7 or WF/DT-8 (I prefer the DT-7).  This affordably-priced rod would be right at home for jacks and landlocks and also a good choice for large terrestrials, streamers and dry/dropper fishing and/or where the wind blows and often. $295 $225

Heddon #20 ~ 9' ~ 3/2 ~ 2F ~ 5.26oz. ~ 6wt. ~ EXC ~ This Dowagiac, Michigan-made rod is from Heddon’s 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 attractive browntone cane with swelled butt, deep burgundy silks tipped old gold, agate stripper, hardened steel snakes, smooth and tight-fitting blued N/S ferrules, and a nicely executed varnish finish that was buffed out and may have been lightly overcoated at some point.  The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable reversed half-wells grip, brown tenite seat with U/L'ing screw and sliding hood hardware, wound over WC, and folding ring HK.  The slide hood shows some light tarnish.  The rod comes with an unlabeled blue hooded bag and the original Heddon aluminum tube wth paper label 98% intact.  The smooth medium-slow action throws a sweet loop and ample amounts of Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-6 line when in the hands of a patient caster.  Classic era Heddon #20’s are among the best bangs for your buck. $275

SOLD

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. $295 $225

WM Granger Aristocrat Model GA9053 ~ 9' ~ 3/2 ~ 5 3/4oz. ~ 7/8wt. ~ New ~ This not oft model 9053 Rocky Mountain classic is new with the original WM labeled plastic on the grip.  You just don’t see many of these floating down the river!  It features a beautiful shade of carmel-colored ammonia treated cane with 3 around nodes, swelled butt, light brown silks tipped dark brown, mildrum stripper, hardened steel snakes, chrome tip tops, tight fitting bright N/S ferrules (as one would expect right out the factory) give that hallmark Granger pop when separated, and a smooth & shiny varnish finish.  The business end of the butt section has a plastic covered reversed half Wells grip, patented internal U/L'ing metal seat with proper stampings and exposed WC.  It comes with the original tan bag and labeled aluminum tube.  The 9053 is a real powerhouse with an easy working medium action that throws a ton of DT-7. Perfect for large trout, jacks, smallies and bucketmouths. This is a super find for WM/Granger collector/enthusiast. $795

SOLD

W&M Granger Victory Model GV9053 ~ 9' ~ 3/2 ~ 6.42oz. ~ 7/8wt. ~ EXC (exceptions noted) ~ The Victory was the workhorse of the Granger lineup.  This not oft seen 9053 Colorado classic features rich carmel colored cane with swelled butt, 3 x 3 nodes, B/O jasper silks, sans tipping, fine Granger-issue guides tight-fitting NS ferrules that give that hallmark Granger pop when separated, and a solid varnish finish that appears to have been overcoated at some point in the past.  The butt section is a shade or two darker than the other sections n the tips have light sets that does not affect line flow or rod performance.  The business end of the butt section has a comfortable reverse half wells grip and is fitted with the patented internal U/L metal seat with proper stampings, and an exposed WC.  The rod comes with the original olive bag and a replacement labeled metal tube for a 9.5’ Phillipson Paramount.  The stout medium-fast action throws an effortless loop when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-7 or WF/DT-8 (I prefer the 8).  This affordably-priced rod would be right at home for jacks and landlocks and also a good choice for large terrestrials, streamers and dry/dropper fishing and/or where the wind blows and often. $275

Paul H. Young Prosperity ~ 9' ~ 3/2 ~6.21 oz. ~ 7/8wt. ~ EXC+ RS (exceptions noted) ~ This Detroit, Michigan classic features attractive light browntone cane with the cane likely supplied by Heddon, orang and black Jasper silks, mildrum stripper, steel snakes, chrome tip-tops, smooth working rolled welt N/S ferrules that give a light pop when separated and a nicely executed smooth and shiny new varnish finish (not sure who did the work, but it was done with a mature hand).  One tip is down 2 7/8”.  The other tip is down 2 3/8”.  The business end of the bitt section has a lightly ridged reversed half wells grip and screw D/L'ing seat with cedar barrel spacer.  The butt cap is sans company stamp.  The original "Paul H. Young’s Prosperity Rod" is inked in white script on the butt section.  It comes with an army olive hooded bag and metal tube, both thought to be original.  The medium fast action throws a long loop like a cannon!   This is historically significant classic from one of the great makers of the time is a valued piece of Americana, and is being offered for sale in hopes it finds its way back to the stream, soon. $595 $495

SOLD

Walton Powell Steelhead ~ 9’3” ~ 3/2 ~ 5.9oz. ~ 7/8wt. Serial No. 0072 ~ As New ~ W. Powell rods are widely regarding as some of the finest casting instruments available and this one is no exception.  This early 70s Paradise, CA Steelhead classic features light carmel-colored cane, forest green silks, quality furnishings include chrome stripper, snakes, and tip tops, tight fitting N/S ferrules that give a satisfying pop when separated and an impeccable glass smooth finish.  The business end of the butt section has a comfortable Wells grip, full metal screw U/L’ing seat and snake guide-style HK loop. It comes with a green bag and aluminum tube, both thought to be original.  The smooth medium action Powell ‘C’ taper throw a powerful long line with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-7 and will handle an 8 with ease if asked.  These rods are not oft seen in the 3 2/ format.  This one may possibly have been used a time or two, but remains in like new condition. $995 $795

SOLD