Question
Heddon Rod
I was given a Heddon 5 foot bamboo fishing rod but I cannot find any pictures or information about it. This pole has these markings on it: #2A, 5', M and also the word "Reliable" and the name "Heddon" with 5 eyelets and metal real seat with a "trigger" on the handle. It has loose thread on 2 eyes, so my question is: Do I replace all threading or do I just do the loose ones? Oh yeah, I also have the original canvas case and label on it.
AnswerDave,
What you have there is a bamboo cast/spin rod. They are just not collected like fly rods. The model is Reliable, 5' length , M is medium weight. 2A is the action, whippy or stiff according to the catalog, same as weight medium.
You will not find it in most collectors, history or price books.
It is not in Bamboo Rod Restoration Handbook by Michael Sinclair . But it is on page 207 of Heddon the Rod with the Fighting Heart by Michael Sinclair #Amazon $139# I own that one. It is first mentioned in the 1940 catalog selling for $7. There was only one cheaper while 5 more expensive.
Your model is not in Classic %26 Antique Fly-Fishing Tackle: A Guide for Collectors %26 Anglers by A.J. Campbell but he has 3 pages on the maker, Heddon.
Price Book: Antique %26 Collectible Fishing Rods: Identification %26 Value Guide Homel, Dan. 1997 #2nd edition 2000# add about 30% for age of book.
Homel gives the Heddon "Reliable" bait casting rod (1 piece) detachable handle the value of $15, 45 and $80 for poor, good, excellent condition respectively.
Homel is probably in your library while "Fighting Heart" is not.
Your question- Do I replace all threading or do I just do the loose ones?
If you don't have finish on all parts of the rod and you fish it ,getting it wet, it can weaken the rod and cause breaks. Bamboo like wood will rot. So I recommend you take all the guides off , strip all finish , rewrap all new guides (old ones may be too small for modern lines or rusty and will cut line) and dip finish in an oil based finish like Martine Spat.
luck,
Mac
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