Identifying Bamboo vs. Fiberglass Fly Fishing Rods: A Guide

Question
I have a rod that I can't tell whether it is a bamboo rod or not. how can I tell what material the rod is made of?

Answer
Robert,
You can send me a picture and usually I can tell.
You got three choices
1 bamboo - flat sided most made prior to 70s usually wrapped with silk not nylon
2 fiber glass round 50s to 70s  mostly wrapped in nylon
3 graphite 70s on ,round no ferrules (metal connectors) where the above 2 have them
South Bend both bamboo and fiberglass rods.
Sen me a complete description and I also usually tell, as follows:
If you are asking for the id or value  of an old rod please give a complete description , send pictures especially labels or logos to me, macsrods@yahoo.com and a complete description including any of following that you can:
Is it? fly or casting rod ? Reel seat is below or above the cork handle ?
Check metal for id and patents ? What is it made of; bamboo ( flat sided) fiberglass or graphite ( round)? Weight in oz? What is the diameter  (not circumference) of the rod above the handle? Where was it purchased ? What type of metal nickel-silver, tin, or chrome platted brass? A complete description of any logos or labels. Length of rod per section and number of sections. Total rod length.


Luck,
Mac

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