Horrocks-Ibbotson Beaverkill

Question
I'm interested in buying my fly-fishing-crazy husband a bamboo rod, and have found a Horrocks-Ibbotson Beaverkill for $200.  Am I wasting my money?  I keep reading that they aren't the best rods.  As I know very little, and have little money to spend, I'd really appreciate some expert advice.  Thanks so much!

Answer
Hi Sherman,

The Beaverkill model first appeared in the H-I lineup around the 1930s at the low end of the quality scale for their rods and the low end of the price range when new...about $5 or so.  In today's market a few of the H-I models in Mint condition will reach, and exceed, the $200 mark.  However, I would expect the Beaverkill model, in Mint condition, to be more in the $100-$125 range.  It's very difficult to say without doing an in person evaluation of the rod, but this is probably a fair range for that model.

H-I rods vary a bit in quality and the components used in their manufacture. However, I would not dismiss them as necessarily inferior across the board.  It is much better to evaluate each rod on its own merits.  I have found H-I rods that perform quite well and are well built.  I have also found some duds...but the same can be said for other manufacturers as well.  These are mass produced rods, but as an entry level rod in the bamboo fly rod world an old H-I can be a good starting point.

You might also look for an old Montague, Shakespeare or South Bend for an affordable rod.  Or, the Heddon, Phillipson or Abercrombie & Fitch at a bit higher price level.  

The key to finding a rod that will both fit your budget and provide your husband with a reliable bamboo antique fly rod is to locate one that is in as good condition as possible for what you can afford.  By this I mean it should have all rod sections, including two tip sections, at full length with no breaks or major repairs; a good cork handle and reel seat; and all, or most, of the original decals or inscriptions intact; plus the original rod bag and rod tube.  If you can find such a rod, and fortunately you can still, it will only appreciate in value over time and can still be used by your husband for fishing.

Spend a little time observing the sale prices, not the asking prices, on some of the online auction sites and get an idea of what you can buy for what price.  If you locate something that looks promising, I'd be happy to answer questions about it for you.

Hope this helps,  Joe