Value of fishing pole

Question
From what I have read you look to be the expert in this field.

I was given a South Bend Bamboo Fishing pole. It is a number 346, 9 foot pole. It looks to be in good to excellent condition. It has the extra tip. It also has the original bag that reads South Bend Fishing Company rod number 346 inspected by 3II. It has a label Comficient Grip on the cork handle. It also has the original tube and a oren-o-matic reel 1130 model d.

What would be the value range? How can an amateur like me understandand  determine its condition? Where is the best place to sell it?

Thank you in advance for our service. Happy New Year!
Clint

Answer
Clint,

Price Book:
Antique & Collectable Fishing Rods: Identification & Value Guide Homel, Dan. 1997 (2nd edition 2000) add about 30% for age of book
This book not only has values but a detailed criteria for condition.
For example :
Summary ?Excellent Condition
(1) Fine, original finish
(2) No missing sections or components
(3) No breaks, fractures, dirt or wear
(4) Shows evidence of only minimal use
(4) Original bag and case with tags and labels
That means the Comficient grip label would look like new.
In my experience most people over evaluate their rods condition, until they see a few.

Homel gives the 9' South Bend  c.1940 model #346 fly rod with an extra tip, 3 sections a value of  $35, 80 and $150 for poor, good, excellent condition respectively.  

Each South Bend rod was made in three actions; Wet Fly or Trout Action, Bass Action, and Dry Fly Action. The model number refers to the rod's grade, or quality and the series number represents the action. For example, #146 is Trout Action, #46 is Bass Action, and #346 is Dry Fly Action. All of these Model 59 rods have the same wraps, hardware and other specifications -only the taper is different. Your rod model dry fly, is desirable.

Homel has a book on reels, too. Reels just don't command much money like under $20.

Lastly , you have a rod , a pole is a person from eastern Europe. Some less than honest people will pick up on that detail and take advantage of you.

Ebay is not a bad place to sell rods.
Clarks Bamboo Fly Rod Forum has  a free classified area:
http://quashnet.clarksclassicflyrodforum.yuku.com/


Luck,
Mac


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