Ideal reel for Spring Brook model A-1362B

Question
A past answer.

The Shakespeare rods can get a little confusing.  Here's what I have learned...

1.  The Spring Brook model 1362 does not appear in the lineup until 1936.  This model was probably made by South Bend for Shakespeare (Shakespeare did not actually make any bamboo rods).  This model does not have the "A" or the "B" designator assigned to it.  Thread wraps on this rod were Orange with Black tipping.

2.  The Spring Brook model 1362 continues into the 1940s, still with no "A" or "B" designator and as also made by South Bend.  The wrap colors were changed to Black/White Jasper (this is Black & White thread twisted together) with no tipping.

3.  The Spring Brook model A-1362-B appears around 1952, also made by South bend and also with Black/White Jasper wraps.  Note; the Black/White wraps may appear more of a Black/Gold due to the coloring of the varnish used on the rod and its age.

My best guess is that your rod is from the early 1950s...certainly post WW II...and near the end of the Shakespeare lineup of bamboo rods.  Value of the rod with all original components and in excellent condition would be in the $130-$160 range.

My question.

What would be the ideal reel for this rod. Will be fishing bass and steelhead?

Answer
Hi John,

Reels are pretty much a personal choice from my point of view.  You should be able to use any reel you like on this rod.  A vintage reel would be something like Pfleuger, South Bend, Orvis, Hardy, etc.  Modern reels with the newer brake systems would be useful on steelhead.

Line weight on the rod is probably a 7wt either WF or DT.  This would be pretty good for bass but might be a little on the light side for steelhead.  You can overline this rod a bit by going up to an 8wt with no problems...you might even get away with a 9wt.

Thanks, Joe