Rod Rating Designations and Abbreviations

SOLD

Steve Gobin (Quilceda Rod Works) ~ 6’8” ~ 2/2 ~ 3.2oz. ~ 3wt. ~ As New ~ This nicely crafted rod from the Pacific NW maker appears to be unfished.  Mr. Gobin is an accomplished a well-known fly tyer who learned the bamboo rod building craft, in part, from Darryl Whitehead, and his workmanship is top notch.  The rod features attractive honey-toned cane with 3 around golden nodes, mirrored tips, jet black silks tipped white, quality furnishings include a black agate stripper housed in a silver mildrum-style frame, black snakes and tip-tops, smooth, tight fitting N/S ferrules (with matching black/white cone-shaped ferrule plug) that give a satisfying pop when separated and a nicely executed glass smooth  varnish finish.  The business end of the butt section has a comfortable extra-flora grade cigar grip, nicely figured black/white ebony seat fitted with D/L'ing N/S cap and ring hardware and a petite N/S WC.  The rod comes with the original black bag with black leather hang tab and heavy gauge aluminum tube with brass end, collar and cap.  The rod has a brisk medium-fast action perfect for close in dry fly work.  It delivers tight loops when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-3 and is the ultimate light line small stream rod that would make a nice addition to anyone’s quiver. $1,295

SOLD OUT

Pickard 704 ~ 7' ~ 2/2 ~ 2.8 oz. ~ 4wt ~ EXC+/As New ~ This quality offering from the bench of Hillsdale, Michigan’s John Pickard is based on the Paul Young Princess taper. You’ll immediately notice John’s attention to detail and mature hand when you first take the rod out of the bag. It features beautifully flamed cane with 3x3 golden nodes, matched tips, translucent brown silk wraps, quality furnishings include oxidized stripper, snakes and tip-tops, tight fitting oxidized N/S ferrules give a satisfying pop when separated and a nicely executed glass-smooth varnish finish. The business end of the butt section has a comfortable modified cigar grip that continues down to form the cork seat that is fitted with black D/L’ing cap and ring hardware, and a HK loop near cork/cane interface. The rod is simply marked Pickard 704 and comes with a quality hooded khaki bag and labeled aluminum tube with brass end, cap and collar. Its crisp and progressive medium-fast action throws a tight loop with a Cortland 444 Peach WF-4 and DT-4. This is a wonderful light line rod perfect for dry fly work on small to mid-size streams that has seen minimal use. $1,295 $1,195

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

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

Sweetgrass Mantra Hex ~ 7'3” ~ 2/1 (made that way) ~ 3oz. ~ 4wt. Serial No 09-025 ~ As New ~ According to the fine folks at Sweetgrass, The Mantra Series of fine bamboo fly rods are based on Glenn Brackett and Jerry Kustich designed tapers that may have minor cosmetic imperfections, none of which were observed on this rod. All Mantra Rods come with 1 tip only and are fitted NS ferrules, carboloy stripper, snake-brand snakes, marbleized resin WC, and black steel HK. This rod is presumably the 25th rod made in 2019 and features an attractive shade of light carmel-colored cane, translucent copper-brown silks with black accent wraps at the WC, HK, signature wrap tip-top and ferrule stations, smooth-fitting ferrules that give a nice pop when they are separated and a nicely executed varnish finish. Full silk wraps adorn the female ferrule, much in the Brackett/Kustich tradition. The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable light wells grip, black D/L’ing screw and slide hood seat with a nicely figured cocobolo spacer, attractive resin WC and black HK. The rod comes in the original soft cloth 2-compartment bag and powder coated aluminum tube with company logo and brass cap collar and end. The rod has a very light in the hand feel and the progressive medium-fast action throws a tight, accurate loop, for me best when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach WF-4. This quality-crafted rod, proudly made in the USA, appears to have been lawn casted only and remains new in appearance.  $995

Redwing Fly Rods Type Speedcast “American” ~ 7.5’ ~ 2/2 ~ 3.8oz. ~ 5wt. ~ As New ~ This sweet casting rod from Fox Point, WI maker Joe Balestrieri features lightly flamed cane with golden 3 x 3 nodes, deep red silks (red, white and blue at the ferrule stations) and a nicely-executed varnish finish. Quality furnishings include black stripper, light wire snakes and tip-tops and smooth and tight fitting N/S ferrules that give a satisfying when separated. The business end of the butt section is completed with a comfortable torpedo grip with tapered nose and cork seat fitted with nicely knurled dual slide bands. The rod comes with a new sturdy hooded bag and aluminum tube with water-tite brass end cap, collar and cap. The rod has a light-in-the-hand feel and a very pleasing brisk, medium-fast action designed for small to medium-sized venues that will occasionally call for a long stealthy cast. For me, it delivers a tight loop with a nice blend of power and delicacy when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-4 and WF-5. Proudly made in the USA. $650

R.W. Summers Model 275 ~ 7.5' ~ 2/2 ~ 3.2oz. ~ 4wt. ~ Serial No. 532009 ~ New! ~ Mr. Summers’ distinguished career at the Paul Young Company and as owner of the R.W. Summers Company needs little introduction to those who own, collect, and fish quality bamboo fly rods.  He is widely regarded as one of the premier makers on the planet.  This one-owner Traverse City, Michigan classic features beautifully attractive flamed cane with golden nodes, translucent brown silks tipped black, quality Summers guides and furnishings, smooth and tight-fitting oxidized N/S ferrules with ferrule plug  that give a satisfying pop when separated, and a perfectly executed glass-smooth varnish finish.  The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable cigar grip, cork seat, dual slide rings, walnut butt cap and grip check, and a HK attached at the front of the grip.  The rod comes in its original chocolate brown bag with makers label stitched into the top, heavy gauge aluminum tube with brass end and cap, and original shipping tube.  The maker’s name is engraved into the top of the tube cap.  The pleasant light parabolic dry fly action is reminiscent of a PHY Perfectionist that was formerly in my quiver and delivers a smooth and tight loop, for me, best with a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-4.  The rod was made for the current owner who only endeavored to lawn cast it, but reported that he did not even do that.  It has never seen the water. Superb! $3,995 SALE $2,995

R.L. Winston ~ 7.5' ~ 2/1 ~ 3 oz. ~ 4wt. ~ Serial No. 8358 ~ EXC- ~ This classic hollow built Winston was built in 1959 by Doug Merrick and features attractive light honey-toned cane, butterscotch silks tipped burgundy at the signature wraps, tip-top, HK and 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. The business end of the butt section has a lightweight Wells grip/cork seat combo fitted with D/L’ing cap ring hardware, Winston-issue exposed WC and folding ring HK. Rod information including the hollow-flute patent number and the original owner’s name are inked on the butt section. The rod comes with a new red bag and new black wrinkle-finish tube with gold end, collar and cap. The 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. $995

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 $1,195

Roger Hammock ~ 7’9” ~ 3/2 ~ 4.3oz. ~ 5wt. ~ EXC+/As New ~ This finely-tuned wand from the bench of Roger Hammock (LKA was in Utah, formerly from Georgia) features attractive honey-toned flamed cane with 2 around golden nodes, matched tips, old gold silks tipped black, stripped agate stripper housed in a bronze nickel frame, black light wire snakes and tips tops, blued Super-Z- style N/S truncated ferrules that fit smooth and tight and give a satisfying pop when separated, and a nicely-executed varnish finish.  The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable extra-flora grade grip with flared palm and tapered nose, beautifully figured dark curly maple seat with blued D/L'ing cap and ring hardware, petite blued WC and HK loop.  The rod comes with a burgundy velvet bag and aluminum tube with brass cap, collar and end.  The rod has a light-in-the-hand feel and a brisk medium-fast action that is perfect for dry fly work.  It throws an exceptional line, for me best with a Cortland 444 Peach WF/DT-5.  This attractive, quality-made classic is on par with rods prices well into 4-figures.  It would be a welcome addition to anyone’s quiver and could become your new “go to” rod. $895

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

Dickerson 8013 ~ 8' ~ 2/2 ~ 4oz. ~ 5wt. ~ EXC (exceptions noted) ~ This historically significant classic built by the famed Bellaire, MI maker was made in 1955 for Mr. Bill Flick, son of Mr. Art Flick, the renown Catskill conservationist, author and fly fisherman. It is being offered in hopes that it will once again be enjoyed by someone who loves fly fishing and bamboo rods. Based on the fine book Dickerson The Man and His Rods by Gerry Stein and Jim Schaaf, only 121 of these rods were listed in the Dickerson ledger. It features light honey-tone cane, translucent copper-brown silks tipped black, with the 4 hallmark signature wraps between the grip and stripper, mildrum stripper, smooth and tight fitting blued N/S ferrules (no pop) and a nicely executed varnish finish. There are ¾” and ¼” repair wraps located between the last snake guide and the replacement tip-top guide on one of the tips and the snake guides on this tip are a darker color, but appear to be Dickerson-issue. The other tip has a light set. The business end of the butt section has a modified cigar grip with tapered nose, walnut seat with the hallmark screw D/L’ing hardware and HK loop. It comes with a hooded bag (tiny hole at the bottom seam of butt section compartment) and aluminum tube, both thought to be original. The rod has a pleasing medium to medium-fast action and effortlessly throws a tight loop when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach WF-5/DT-5. This rare classic from one of the masters of yesteryear is ready to be used for many more years. $3,495 $2,995

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

SOLD OUT

Paul H. Young Parabolic 15 ~ 8’ ~ 2/2 ~ 4.2/4.3oz. ~ HDH (DT-6) ~ EXC+ RS ~ This Detroit-made classic from the Paul H. Young Co is a real powerhouse. It features attractive flamed cane, brown silks, mildrum-style stripper, smooth & tight fitting oxidized Super -Z- stamped N/S ferrules that give a strong pop and a nicely executed varnish finish. Most original-build PHY Para 15s carry a serial number that began in 1955 around the time Bob Summers began work at the Young shop. This rod is sans seral number and was likely built in the early 1950s after the Super-Z ferrules were adopted by Young and based on the varnish, wrap work and writing on the rod, was restored by Bob. The Super Z was designed circa 1948 by Louis Feierabend who spent time on the Nat Uslan’s small Spring Valley, NY staff of talented craftsmen. The rod features a dry tip (the rod weighs in a svelte 4.2 oz with this tip) and a wet tip (4.3oz) and is so marked. There is also a few turns of red silk at the tip-top guide of the dry tip for ease of identification. The business end of the butt section has a comfortable modified Wells grip (possibly replaced by Bob), black screw D/L’ing seat wth blued butt cap, cork spacer and a HK loop that appears to be Bob Summers-issue. The side of the butt cap carries the Paul H. Young Co. Detroit – Mich die stamp. It comes with what appears to be the original bag (small holes at bottom) and the original aluminum tube made from war surplus B-24 “Liberator” aircraft tubing from the Willow Run, MI bomber plant. This fine casting instrument has a medium-fast parabolic action that throws a smooth and tight loop with minimal effort. It is rated for a DT-6 silk line, but best for me when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-5/WF-6. This cool piece of Michigan history is ready for immediate use on your favorite stream. $2,995 $2,495

SOLD

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

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

W.E. Carpenter Browntone ~ 8.5’ ~ 3/2 ~ 4.8oz.~ 5/6wt. ~ EXC+/As ~ This high quality prototype rod was a crafted as part of a heat treat experiment, that in Mr. Carpenter’s words “turned out to be quite a nice action 5/6 weight rod.”  I whole-heartedly agree! It features richly treated cane with swelled butt, 3 around golden nodes, mirrored tips, brown silks tipped black, oxidized guides and tip-tops, smooth & tight fitting blued N/S step-down ferrules give that give a satisfying pop when separated and a beautifully executed glass smooth varnish finish. The business end of the butt section has a comfortable perfection grip, beautifully figured polished walnut seat fitted with blued D/L’ing cap and ring hardware, petite blued WC and folding ring HK.  The makers logo is stamped into the side of the butt cap.  The rod comes with a quality soft cloth tan bag and Mr. Carpenter’s heavy-duty brass capped aluminum tube with the makers Hester, NY label with hand-written rod info fully intact under the collar.  The wonderfully smooth and crisp medium-fast action throws an effortless loop on-demand when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-5 and/or WF/DT-6.  This exquisite casting tool from one of the most respected makers on the planet would be a fine choice for the Henry’s Fork, Missouri, Big Horn or Big D.  Superb! $2,495

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

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

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

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

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

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

H.L. Leonard Tournament Model 50½ DF ~ 8.5’ ~ 3/1 ~ 4 1/8oz. ~ 6wt. ~ EXC- (exceptions noted) ~ This rare pre-fire dry fly classic is a favorite among cane rod aficionados. It’s apparently all original, but could possibly have received light varnish overcoat at some point in the past. It features attractive light carmel-colored cane with swelled butt and 3 x 3 spiral nodes, avocado silks tipped red, fine Leonard furnishings including a milky white agate stripper, bronze reverse-twist English snakes, smooth and tight fitting Leonard N/S step-down ferrules that give a satisfying pop upon separation and have the dual patent stamp on the butt ferrule below the welt and properly positioned witness marks. I noted a very faint ferrule tick and the tip section has a 1-inch long repair wrap between the last snake guide and tip-top. The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable cigar grip with tapered nose, dark butternut seat with N/S D/L'ing cap and ring hardware, a petite N/S WC and a folding ring HK. The butt cap carries The Leonard Rod HL Leonard Rod CO Makers Reg. U.S. Pat. Off. (on one side) and Tournament (on the other side) die stamps. The rod comes with the original olive bag with hang tag and Leonard-issue brass capped aluminum tube. This rod has a wonderful feel with an action that is just a touch on the fast side of medium. It would be a good choice for the Henry’s Fork, Big Horn, Madison and Missouri, just to name a few, and performs admirably with a Cortland 444 Peach WF-6. It will also handle a 5 if in the hands of a patient caster. Leonard rods have always been in high demand and this one, in need of a little TLC can be a “go to” rod for years to come. $495

WM Granger Special Model GS8642 ~ 8.5' ~ 3/2 ~ 5.2oz. ~ 5/6wt. ~ EXC+ (exceptions noted) ~ This post WW-II classic features attractive ammonia-treated carmel-colored cane with swelled butt, 3 x 3 nodes, parakeet green silks, standard WM stripper, snakes and tip tops, smooth and tight fitting N/S ferrules that give a satisfying pop when separated and a nicely executed varnish finish. One tip is 1 ½” short (apparently at the tip top end). This tip is very fishable with no discernable difference from the full length tip. The business end of the butt section is fitted with a comfortable reversed half wells grip, patented internal U/L'ing metal seat in perfect working condition and exposed WC. The rod comes with the original tan bag and aluminum tube with partial WM label still intact. The smooth action is a touch faster than most GS8642s I’ve had, and sang for me with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-5 or WF-6. This Colorado classic is in super condition and is an excellent example of this model that will surely please the Granger / WM aficionado. Handsomely priced for immediate sale at…$450

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

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

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

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

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

Pezon et Michel Parabolic Prima Normale ~ 9' ~ 2/1 ~ 5.3 oz. ~ 6/7wt. Serial No. 2159511 ~ As New ~ This quality crafted parabolic from the famous French maker features light honey-tone cane with 3 x 3 spiral nodes, mint green silks, chrome stripper, bronze reverse-twist snakes, chrome and tip top, blued N/S ferrules with ferrule plug that give a resounding pop when separated and a nicely executed finish. The business end of the butt section has a comfortable light reversed Wells grip, cork seat with champagne screw D/L'ing hardware, exposed WC, and chrome HK loop. The makers name is stamped into the side of the butt cap. The rod comes with the original cream bag with makers label stitched into the hood and labeled aluminum tube. This is a real workhorse of a rod with a sweet parabolic action that I enjoyed casting when paired with a Cortland 444 Peach DT-6/WF-7. If you’ve been after a quality-made rod in as new condition that won’t break the bank, this one should garner some serious consideration. $395

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

FE Thomas Dirigo ~ 9’2”/9’5” ~ 3/2/2 ~ 5.9/6.1 oz. ~ 7/8wt. ~ Serial No. 22 ~ EXC- (exceptions noted) ~ The FE Thomas Company built rods from turn of the 20th Century up to c. 1958-59. During their early years, and up through 1936, the rods were numbered with a die stamp on the bottom of the butt cap, usually starting with the number 1 and continuing until the end of that calendar year and then repeated again the following year beginning with number 1. At some point in the mid to late 1930s (some believe 1936-37), the FET Co. modified the die stamp to include both symbols and numbers. This FET classic has the number 22 stamped into the bottom of the butt cup and is believed to be a pre-1937 rod. In addition to the FET Dirigo die stamp on the side of the reel seat, a former (and likely original) Reading, PA owner’s name and 1922 is stamped into the side of the reel foot sleeve further delineating the rods age. This old world classic with 2 mid sections features a rich carmel-colored hade of browntone cane with swelled butt, brown silks and intermediates, agate stripper housed in a black nickel frame, reverse twist snakes, one tip has a standard hardened steel tip top guide, the other has a milky white agate tip top guide and this tip also has a 1” long repair wrap between the 1st and 2nd snake guide. The varnish, which no doubt has been touched up and possibly overcoated over the years, is beginning to craze and has some nicks and bag marks. The blued NS ferules fit smooth and tight and give a give a solid pop when separated. The business end of the butt section has a cigar grip with tapered nose, blued German silver seat with D/L'ing. slide band hardware and the hallmark FET petite blued WC with attached folding ring HK. The rod comes with what is likely the original factory-sewn 5-compartment brown bag with properly sized slot for the shorter mid, and aluminum tube. The rod has a slow wet fly action that will perform admirably in the hands of a patient caster. This century-old classic is a super find for the FET enthusiast. $595