Southbend bamboo Fly Rod

Question
My FatherIn-Law gave me a Fly rod that he won when he was in the service in a raffle. The rod has never been used. It's made by SouthBend and it says on it "Beaverkill". Is this a good fly rod?

Answer
Hi Jim,

I don't find any listing in my books for a Beaverkill model made by South Bend.  Typically, South Bend used numbers to designate their various rod models rather than names.  I learn something new every day and would be interested in seeing a photo of the rod if it has both South bend and Beaverkill names or decals on it.

Horrocks-Ibbotson did build a Beaverkill model.  It would rank somewhere in the lower third of their models as to price, components and quality.  Value today in unused condition would be in the $140-$180 range.  Perhaps a bit more for the right buyer.  By way of comparison, if it were/is a South Bend rod, the value would be about $100 or so higher.

H-I rods are what they call production rods since they were mass produced and targeted toward the average income level purchaser of the time.  I find H-I rods to generally be decent fishing rods and some are better than others; even within the same models.  It is best to test cast the rods to determine whether or not they work for you before you buy.  You did not get this chnace as the rod is a gift.  

If you are interested in using the rod, inspect it carefully and then test cast it to see how you like it.  Inspection should include looking for any obvious flaws or damage.  Look for ferrules or cork that is or feels loose...the glues used in those days can dry out over time and lose the grip or seal they made between parts of the rod.  Assuming this rod has no problems, it will probably work well with a modern line of 7wt, possibly 8wt.

It's a nice gift and a good rod to use to enter the world of fly fishing with bamboo.

Thanks,  Joe