Shakespeare 1362-9 bamboo rod

Question
Marc, I have a Shakespeare 1362-9' 3 piece bamboo fly rod that was my Grandfathers.  I would like to use it for Steelhead here in the NW.
I'm not sure what wt. of line and leader to use with this rod as it is not marked.  Can you help?

Thanks  Tom

Answer
Hi Tom,

First of all, Joe Douglas on this site knows a lot more than I do about old Bamboo rods.  I would also pose this question to him.

I do know that it was a popular rod often referred to as the Spring Brook.  They were from the mid 30's to the mid 40's.

The problem is that they were probably 5 or 6 weight rods which may be a little light for Steelhead, which I would recommend a 9 weight.  The older rods had a letter system to tell you the weight.  See if there is a letter designation somewhere on the rod or end of the handle.  Then check a chart like this to convert. http://css.sbcma.com/timj/flyline_chart.htm

Good luck,

Marc