Rod Rating Designations and Abbreviations

Pickard 634 ~ 6' 3” ~ 2/2 ~2oz. ~ 4wt ~ EXC+ ~ This neat rendition of the famous Paul Young Midge comes from the bench of Hillsdale, Michigan’s John Pickard.  You’ll immediately notice John’s attention to detail and mature hand when you first take the rod out of the bag. It features attractive mottled-flamed cane, much in the Young tradition, matched tips, 3 x 3 spiral nodes, bronze-brown silk wraps, quality furnishings include a black stripper, snakes & tip-tops, smooth and tight fitting Super-Z style 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 petite grip that continues down to form the cork seat fitted with black dual slide bands, wound over check and HK loop.  It comes with a high quality hooded khaki bag and brass-capped aluminum tube.  The rod appears to have been used sparingly.  It throws tight and accurate loops with a Cortland 444 Peach WF-4 and will toss a 3 if asked.  Proudly 'Made in Michigan'! $1,195 $1,095

Pickard 6624 ~ 6.5’ ~ 2/2 ~ 2.7oz. ~ 4wt ~ As New ~ This neat rendition of a famous Lyle Dickerson classic comes from the bench of Hillsdale, Michigan’s John Pickard. You’ll immediately notice John’s attention to detail and mature hand when you first take the rod out of the bag. It features attractive blonde cane with 3 x 3 nodes, matched tips, bronze-brown silk wraps much in the Dickerson tradition, quality furnishings includes a black stripper, snakes & 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 petite cigar grip, beautifully figured hardwood seat fitted with N/S cap and wedding band hardware, petite N/S WC and HK loop. It comes with a high quality hooded wheat bag and brass-capped aluminum tube. The rod appears to have been used sparingly, if at all and is basically new in appearance. The brisk medium to medium-fast action throws a sweet loop with a Cortland 444 Peach WF-4 and will also perform admirably with a 3 if asked. Perfect for small streams and proudly Made in Michigan. $1,195

R.W. Summers Midge ~ 6.5' ~ 2/2 ~ 2.3oz. ~ 3/4wt. ~ Serial No. 7592 ~ As 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 light line 1-owner rod from Traverse City, Michigan is a Summers Deluxe model made in 1992 and features attractive flamed cane with golden nodes, matched tips, 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 with tapered nose, 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 red bag with makers label stitched into the top, heavy gauge aluminum tube with brass end and cap, and original cardboard shipping tube. The maker’s name is engraved into the top of the tube cap. The pleasant medium-fast dry fly action delivers a smooth and tight loop with a SA Ultra Buckskin DT-3 and Cortland 444 Peach WF-4. This Michigan-made classic in the desirable 6.5’ format has never seen the water. Superb! $3,500

SOLD

Jenkins GA70L-115  ~ 7' ~ 2/2 ~ 3.4oz. ~ 4wt. ~ EXC+ ~ Rods from this well respected Rocky Mountain maker are widely regarded by the cane rod community as some of the best-made on the market.  This beautifully crafted rod features an attractive shade of blonde oven-tempered cane, translucent lemon silks, brown at the ferrule stations and an unparalleled varnish finish.  Quality hardware consists of a two-tone agate stripper houses in a silver frame, chrome guides, and smooth and tight fitting Swiss-style ferrules that give a resounding pop when separated.  The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable cigar grip with tapered nose, Cherrywood seat with D/L’ing formed N/S cap and tapered ring, petite N/S WC and HK loop.  The rod comes with the original high quality tan bag with grommeted leather hang tab and green wrinkle finish aluminum tube with maker’s gold foil label.  This rod is a real joy to cast and lays out effortless loops with a Cortland 444 Peach WF-4. It’ll also handle a 3 if asked nicely!  This superbly crafted American-made rod with very low mileage is a sweet find for the Jenkins enthusiast. $1,395

Jenkins GA70-82 ~ 7' ~ 2/2 ~ 3.5oz. ~ 4wt. ~ EXC+ ~ Rods from this well respected Rocky Mountain maker are widely regarded by the cane rod community as some of the best-made on the market. This well-cared for wand features attractive oven-tempered and lightly flamed cane with golden nodes, matched tips, translucent lemon silks (burgundy at the ferrule stations), quality hardware including an agate stripper housed in a smoked silver frame, smoked guides and tip-tops, smooth and tight fitting oxidized Swiss-style ferrules that give a satisfying pop when separated, and an unparalleled varnish finish. The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable cigar grip, nicely figured cherry reel seat with formed blued nickel-silver cap and tapered ring hardware and a petite blued N/S WC. The rod comes with the original high quality tan bag with grommeted leather hang tab, and green wrinkle finish aluminum tube with the maker’s gold label. This rod is a joy to cast and the medium-fast action effortlessly lays out a tight loop with a Cortland 444 Peach WF-4/DT-4 with just the right blend of power and delicacy. Jenkins classics are in high demand and have been becoming more difficult to find, especially in this condition. Superb! 1,395

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

H.L. Leonard 38H ~ 7' ~ 2/1 ~ 3.7 oz. ~ 4wt ~ VG+ (exceptions noted) ~ This pre-fire classic features 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 varnish finish. The varnish on the tip section near the ferrule end is starting to delaminate. The tip section is 1 3/8" short and at least one snake guide has been rewrapped. The business end of the butt section has a modified half wells grip that shows some ridging, screw D/Ling seat with butternut spacer, petite N/S WC and folding ring HK. The butt cap carries the U.S. Reg Pat. Off. Leonard die stamp. It comes with what may or may not be the original bag (sans hang tag) and original tube. The rod has a comfortable medium-fast action that is well suited for dry fly work with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-4. Fishable as is, but this Central Valley classic is certainly deserving of some TLC. $595

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 $1,795

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

Hardy “The Palakona” ~ 7.5’ ~ 2/2 ~ 3.9oz. ~ 6wt. ~ Serial No. J5611 ~ As New ~ These quality-made classics from across the pond have long been under-rated in the States and was one of Hardy’s most popular models. This late 1970s offering features blonde cane, red “whippings” tipped green, quality furnishings including a clear agate stripper, chrome reverse twist snakes, chrome and tip-top, smooth and tight fitting blued N/S ferrules with silver ferrule plug that give a resounding pop when separated, and a nicely executed varnish finish. The tip sections are about a quarter- inch shorter than the butt section (made that way). The business end of the butt section has a comfortbale cigar grip that continues down to form the cork seat fitted with Hardy’s patented D/L'ing slide ring and cap registered universal reel holder properly stamped with Hardy's logo, exposed N/S WC, and folding ring HK. The rod comes with the original Hardy labeled soft cloth bag sans hang tag and a black fiber tube. The crisp and stout medium-fast action would be perfect for keep large trout in tight quarters from disappearing into woody debris or undercut banks. I found it well-suited to a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-6. This is one of the nicer examples of this model that I have seen in quite some time. $695 $595

Jenkins Model GA75-66 ~ 7.5’ ~ 2/2 ~ 3.6oz. ~ 4/5wt. ~ EXC+/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 wand is believed to be a Charlie and Steve collaborative effort and features an attractive shade of blonde cane with matched tips, 3 x 3 nodes, chestnut brown silks tipped maize and an expertly applied glass smooth varnish finish. The quality hardware consists of chrome mildrum-style stripper, snakes and tip-tops and smooth and tight fitting Swiss-style N/S ferrules that give a resounding pop when separated. The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable cigar grip with tapered nose, hallmark cherry wood seat with N/S cap and tapered ring hardware, petite N/S WC and folding ring HK. The rod comes with a quality-made twill bag with hang tab and Charlie-era labeled aluminum tube. The progressive and crisp medium-fast action lays out a tight loop with minimal effort when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-4/WF-5 and would be a wonderful tool for the dry fly enthusiast. This superbly crafted American-made rod will cover most trout fishing situations on small to medium size streams and would certainly be a welcome addition to anyone’s arsenal. $1,495

R.W. Lancaster “Falling Springs” ~ 7.5’ ~ 2/2 ~ 3.4 oz. ~ 4/5wt. ~ As New ~ SN 340UPJB ~ This stunning rod from the bench of Bob Lancaster is a neat rendition of the famous Paul Young Perfectionist and features attractive nicely flamed and Young-Like cane with golden nodes, translucent tan silks tipped black and a nicely executed varnish finish. Quality hardware includes a silver TiCh striper, chrome snakes, blued tip tops and smooth and tight fitting blued Super-Swiss 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 rounded nose, nicely figured maple seat with black D/L’ing cap and ring hardware, black rear grip check and HK loop. The rod comes with original flannel bag with makers name stitched into to the top inside of the flap and black powder coated aluminum tube with gold water tite cap and collar. The easy casting medium-fast action behave much in the tradition of a PHY Perfectionist and is well suited to dry fly work. It also has some reserve power when called upon for those occasionally needed longer than average casts. For me, the rods performance was maximized when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-4 but will handle a 5 with ease. This nicely constructed American-made rod, may have been fished once or twice but remains in as new condition. Superb! $1,095

SOLD

SOLD

Orvis Battenkill ~ 7.5’ ~ 2/1 ~ 3 7/8oz. ~ H.D.G (6) ~ Serial No. 58884 ~ EXC- (exceptions noted) ~ This Manchester, VT. Classic was made in 1970 during the Ron White era and features nicely hued impregnated cane, translucent light brown silks, fine Orvis-issue guides and tight fitting blued N/S ferrules which give a satisfying pop when separated. The business end of the butt section has a cigar grip that shows some use, D/L'ing screw and slide hood light aluminum seat, nicely figured walnut spacer, exposed WC (that is tarnished) and HK loop. The guides and rod could use a thorough cleaning. It comes with a non-original green Orvis bag that is for a longer rod and original Orvis aluminum tube with silver and blue label. The comfortable action is just a touch on the fast side of medium and is well suited for dry fly work with plenty of reserve power in the butt to punch out longer casts when needed. Although rated by Orvis as a WF-6, I really like this one with a Cortland 444 Peach WF-5. I’m guessin that it’ll find its way into someone’s quiver sooner rather than later. $450

D.G. Schroeder ~ 7.5' ~ 2/2 ~ 4.2oz. ~ 4wt. Serial No. 1986 ~ EXC (exceptions noted) ~ This early Schroeder classic was built by Don in 1986 (his 19th overall) at his old shop on Lamancha Drive in Janesville, WI. Don is widely regarding as one of the premiere contemporary cane rods builders and his fine lineup of quality cane rods is unsurpassed in quality. This rod features richly flamed cane with golden nodes configured in the firing order of a six cylinder engine, translucent old gold silks with black tipping, red agate stripper housed in a black nickel frame, black snakes, and tip tops, oxidized N/S ferrules (with ferrule plug) fit smooth and tight and give a satisfying pop when separated and a beautifully executed varnish finish. Interestingly, the female ferrule housing can be removed from its station, and doing so reveals the station to be constructed with a male ferrule, which also results in resounding pop. The housing wrap on one of the tip section ferrules has also started to come loose and this ferrule should also be reset.  Don has generously offered to address this for the rods new owner.  The business end of the butt section has a comfortable light cigar grip with lightly flared end and tapered nose, nicely figured hardwood seat with U/L’ing screw hardware and petite N/S WC. The rod comes with the original high quality tan bag and unlabeled aluminum tube. This is a wonderful casting instrument! The medium-fast action is well suited for dry fly work and the taper boasts plenty of reserve power to reach out when called upon. I really liked it with Cortland 444 Peach DT-4 or even a WF-5. This rod was obviously a favorite of a previous owner as evidenced by the light set in both tips. With plenty of room to address the ferrule oddities… $995

Thomas & Thomas “The Classic” ~ 7.5' ~ 2/2 ~ 3.3 oz. ~ 5wt. ~ Serial No.2400 ~ EXC ~ This early Maxwell-era T&T classic was built circa 1970 and features an attractive shade of impregnated cane with golden nodes, gold silks trimmed with a turn of red and blue at the HK, tip tops and ferrule stations, quality T&T guides and smooth fitting N/S ferrules that give a satisfying pop when separated. There is a slight twist on one side of stripping guide bridge that has no affect. It appears to have been made that way. The business end of the butt section has a comfortable cigar grip, D/L'ing cap and ring seat with a polished walnut spacer, wound over WC and folding ring HK. The letter M is engraved into the bottom of the butt cap. The rod comes with the original light tan bag and aluminum tube with the hallmark man in the top hat T&T label. The silky smooth action is just a touch on the fast side of medium and throws an effortless loop with a Cortland 444 Peach WF-5. T&T rods from this era are highly desirable and are getting harder and harder to find. This one is a super find for the T&T enthusiast. $1,295

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

SOLD OUT

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

Jenkins Model GA79-10 ~ 7' 9” ~ 2/2 ~ 4oz. ~ 5wt. ~ 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 wand in my favorite format is believed to be a Charlie and Steve collaborative effort and features an attractive shade of blonde cane with matched tips, 3 x 3 nodes, chestnut brown silks tipped maize and an expertly applied glass smooth varnish finish.  The quality hardware consists of a black mildrum-style stripper, black snakes and tip-tops and smooth and tight fitting Swiss-style blued N/S ferrules that give a resounding pop when separated.  The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable cigar grip with tapered nose, Cherry wood seat with formed N/S cap and tapered ring hardware, petite black N/S WC and HK loop.  The rod comes with a quality-made olive twill bag and green wrinkle finish aluminum tube with maker’s gold foil label.  The progressive and crisp medium-fast action lays out a tight loop with minimal effort when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach WF-5 or DT-5.  This superbly crafted American-made rod comes in a very popular length that will cover most trout fishing situations.  It’s a safe bet that it’ll become your new go to rod! $1,425

SOLD

Heddon #20 Bill Stanley’s Favorite ~ 8' ~ 3/2 ~ 1 1/2F ~ 3 3/4oz. ~ HEH or F (5wt.) ~ EXC (exception noted) ~ This wonderful Dowagiac, Michigan classic is from Heddon’s Post-Classic era (1949 – 1956) and comes in the hard to find 8’ ~ 1 1/2F format. It was built in Heddon’s “Handmade Rod Department” where all rods (#20 and up) were crafted by a single rod maker and features attractive browntone cane with swelled butt, deep burgundy silks, black stripper and snakes, smooth and tight-fitting blued N/S ferrules and a nicely executed varnish finish. Both tips have light sets (one more pronounced than the other) and a couple of turns of silk are missing from one side of the last snake guide foot on the mid. The business end of the butt section is fitted with a reversed half-wells grip, brown marbleized tenite spacer with black D/L'ing screw and sliding hood hardware, wound over WC and folding ring HK. The Post-Classic era straight line Heddon writing is present on three alternating flats. The rod comes with a burgundy Heddon bag with stitched in hang tag and labeled burgundy aluminum tube (a small are of the cap is lightly mushroomed, which does not affect use). The comfortable easy throwing action is just a touch on the fast side of medium and delivers a tight loop when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach WF-5 line. This MI-made classic would be a welcome addition to anyone’s arsenal but is an especially nice find for the Heddon enthusiast. $695

SOLD

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

McKellip P102 ~ 8' ~ 2/2 ~ 4.4oz. ~ 5wt. ~ EXC+ ~ This finely-tuned one owner rod from the bench of Michigan’s McKellip Brothers is based on a the famous Payne 102 taper. One immediately notices the attention to detail soon as the rod is removed from its handsome antique olive tube. It features select heat-treated tonkin cane with an attractive light carmel hue, matched tips, 2 x 2 golden nodes, brown silks with a tun of forest green at the WC and nicely-executed glass smooth varnish finish. The quality furnishings include a smoke black stripper, black snakes and tip tops and smooth and tight fitting blued NS ferrules that give a resounding pop when separated. The business end of the butt section is fitted with comfortable modified wells grip perfectly married to a nicely figured black walnut seat with blued N/S D/L’ing cap ring hardware. The side of the butt cap is tastefully engraved with the maker’s logo. A petite blued WC completes the grip area. The rod comes with a quality stitched heavy felt bag with the maker’s stitched in tab and antique olive labeled tube with the makers logo engraved into the top of the heavy gauge brass tube cap. The comfortable action is just a touch on the fast side of medium and is well-suited to dry fly work when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-5. This superb and well cared for rod has seen very little use and will surely please. $1,095

Mills & Son Standard ~ 8' ~ 3/2 ~ 4.1 oz. ~ 5 wt. ~ EXC- (exceptions noted) This classic from Mills & Son of New York features medium blonde cane with swelled butt and 3x3 nodes, old gold silks with full intermediates, mildrum stripper, reverse twist snakes, chrome tip-tops, N/S Leonard step-down ferrules and a solid varnish finish. The rod is not arrow straight. The ferrule fit of both tip sections is a bit loose and a faint ferule click can be felt. The business end of the butt section has a cigar grip with a few pits, likely from use as a HK, butternut barrel seat with N/S cap & ring hardware and petite N/S WC. The side of butt cap carries the STANDARD Mills & Son Makers N.Y. die stamp. The rod comes with a replacement bag and tube. The medium-slow action throws a WF-5 or DT-5 nicely and maybe even a 4 in the hands of a patient caster. While maybe not as collectable as it once was, it fall squarely into the good ‘ole fishing rod category and remains a cool piece of fly fishing Americana. $595

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 $2,295

SOLD

R.L. Winston ~ 8' ~ 2/2 ~ 4 oz. ~ 5wt. ~ Serial No. 1623 ~ EXC ~ This classic hollow-fluted Winston was completed on July 7, 1976 during a historically significant time when company operations were transitioning from San Francisco to Twin Bridges and could be one of Doug Merrick’s last rods (Winston records indicate Doug Merrick’s last SF-built rod carried the serial number of around 1620).  It features attractive light honey-tone cane, butterscotch silks, quality furnishings include Winston-issue bronze guides and hallmark wound-over duronze ferrules that fit smooth and tight and give a satisfying pop when separated.  The business end of the butt section is fitted with a modified light cigar grip with tapered nose, hardwood seat with screw D/L’ing hardware, brown resin WC and folding ring HK.  The hollow-flute patent No. inked on the butt.  The set comes with a red SF Winston labeled bag and aluminum tube with the SF-era hollow-fluted Winston label.  This sweet casting medium-slow to medium action wand throws a tight loop when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach WF-5 and is finely tuned for the patient caster.  This is a superb example of a Classic SF Winston and wonderful find for the Winston enthusiast. $1,795

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 $395

Heddon #8 ~ 8.5' ~ 3/2 ~ 2 1/2F ~ 4 3/4oz (without reel seat)/5.3oz(with) ~ 6/7 wt. ~ EXC+/As New(exceptions noted) ~ The #8 was the last of the bamboo fly rod models developed by Heddon, and had the shortest production run (it was only available in 1951 and 1952) making the #8 one of the scarcest model in the Heddon lineup to find.  This Post-Classic Era rod appears was presented to me as being all original, though the cork seat has been cleaned. It features attractive browntone cane with swelled butt, B/O Jasper silks tipped gold, mildrum stripper, hardened steel snakes, and tip-tops.  The rolled welt N/S ferrules and a nicely executed varnish finish.  The ferrule fit on both tips is loose which results in a light click and the cork seat shows some light ridging.  The business end of the butt section has a straight cork grip, marbelized brown tenite seat with screw D/L'ing hardware and exposed WC.  Straight line Heddon writing and rod stats are present on the butt.  The rod comes with the original Heddon bag with stitched in tag and black fiber tube (no cap or collar) that is also likely original.  The rod has a wonderful medium action and tosses a tight loop when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-6/WF-7 and would be an excellent candidate for a silk line.  This is a nice piece of Michigan history and a super find for the Heddon collector. $325

H.L. Leonard Tournament ~ 8.5’ ~ 3/2 ~ 4.3oz. ~ 5/6wt. ~ EXC- (exceptions noted) ~ This pre-fire classic is believed to be a Model 50 ½, but absent the hang tag, I do not know for sure. It appears to have received light varnish overcoat and features light carmel-colored cane with swelled butt and 3 x 3 spiral nodes, avocado silks tipped red with a turn of purple at the HK nd male ferrule stations, milky white agate stripper, bronze reverse-twist snakes, new black tip tops, tight fitting Leonard N/S step-down ferrules give a nice pop upon separation and have the dual patent stamp on the butt ferrule below the welt, and properly positioned witness marks. The business end of the butt section is fitted with a cigar grip, butternut seat with N/S D/L'ing cap and ring hardware, a petite N/S WC and a folding ring HK. The cork as some gouges likely from use as a fly keeper. The butt cap carries The Leonard Rod HL Leonard Rod CO Makers (on one side) and Tournament (on the other side) die stamps. The rod comes with what is believed to be the original olive bag, sans hang tag, and Leonard brass capped aluminum tube. The smooth medium-slow action handle a Cortland 444 Peach DT-5/WF-6 nicely and would be a super candidate for a Sylk or Cortland Classic Sylk line. This a nice find for the Leonard enthusiast. $795

SOLD

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 $250

SOLD

Edwards “Quadrate” #50 ~ 9' ~ 3/1 ~ 5.6oz. ~ 7wt. ~ EXC (exceptions noted) ~ This Mt Carmel, CT quad features an attractive shade of honey-tone cane with golden nodes, brown silks tipped gold with alternating signatures wraps on the butt section, mildrum stripper, black snakes and tip-top, smooth and tight fitting blued N/S ferrules that give a resounding pop when separated and a nicely executed glass smooth varnish finish that may have been redone at some point in the past. The rod has a light set that does not affect performance and one foot of the last snake guide on the mid-section was rewrapped in clear silk. The business end of the butt section is fitted with a modified light cigar grip, black pyralin seat with matching screw U/L’ing hardware and black grip checks. The folding ring HK is missing. 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 replacement bag and leather tube. The strong medium to medium fast action would be well suited for windy condition and Casts a very pleasant Cortland 444 Peach DT-6/WF-7 line. This classic Quad would be a great choice if you’re after larger than average quarry and an attractive price. $425

H.S. Gillum ~ 9' ~ 2/3 ~ 7 oz. ~ 7wt to 9wt. ~ Serial No. 1-909 ~ EXC+ ~ This historically significant circa 1960 classic is thought to be a Stagg Special salmon rod, though it is without hang tag or tube label to confirm. Most Gillum aficionados surmise was he that to be Harrold “Pinky” Gillum crafted approximately 1,000 rods during his rod building tenure. This big water/ big fish rod comes with a value-added third tip section that was crafted at some point after the rod was completed. The rod features an attractive shade of honey-tone cane with 2 x 2 golden nodes, brown silks tipped black at the HK and black-gold-black at the male ferrule stations, bronze mildrum stripper, hardened steel snakes and tip-tops, tight-fitting blued N/S Super -Z- ferrules that give a resounding pop and a nicely executed varnish finish. Of noteworthy interest, the Super –Z- ferrule was designed by Louis Feierabend who spent time on Nat Uslan’s small Spring Valley, NY staff of talented craftsmen. The business end of the butt section has a comfortable reversed half wells grip with tapered nose, screw U/L'ing seat with walnut spacer, petite blued WC HK loop. H.S. Gillum Maker is nicely struck into the side of the screw hood. The seat is equipped with a removable butt cap plug, regrettably, sans fighting butt, but another indication that rod could be the Stagg Special model. The rod comes with a custom made replacement bag with an extra compartment to accommodate the third tip (small 1” tape covered tear in outer tip compartment) and a replacement aluminum tube with brass end, collar and cap. This rod is a beast and will handle 7 to 9 wt lines with ease. This wonderful piece of American rod making history would be a welcome addition to any bamboo rod collector and/or user. $4,295 $3,495

SOLD

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