Heddon Black beauty needs repair

Question
Joe. I became the owner of  a 8 1/2ft model #17 Black Beauty .. vintage 1960's. Unfortunatley the bamboo is coming apart and was not taken care of properly.. is it worth fixing ?? about what would a complete refinishing and regluing cost ?

Sad fisherman

Answer
Hi Sad Richard,

Heddon last listed the bamboo fly rod in its catalog in 1956 so the rod may be a bit older than you think it is.  Regardless, the model #17 was a popular model and has a pretty good collector value.  The 8 1/2' version in Good-Very Good condition would be valued in the $200-$300 range, in Excellent-Mint condition in the $350-$450 range.

Can it be repaired...yes.  What would it cost?  Depends on the extent of the damage.  If the entire rod must be rebuilt, it would likely cost more than it is worth.  Don't throw it away...there is probably someone who will buy it at some price and rebuild it their in spare time or strip it for parts.

An option for you is to determine if any of the rod sections are still sound enough to be used.  If so, you may be able to locate another model #17 from which you can use sections to complete this rod.

Thanks,  Joe