Identifying Vintage Split Bamboo Fly Rods with Compass Handles

Question
QUESTION: I have 2 small split bamboo rods with compasses embedded in handles, no manufacturer. They seem to be fresh water rods. Can you tell me anything about them?

ANSWER: Hi Brenda,

Sorry, but not much I'm afraid.  Are they fly rods or casting rods?  One piece, two pieces or three pieces?  What do the handles look like and are there any stampings or writing on them at all?  How long are they?  What do the reel seats look like?

The compasses are a new item for me.  I don't think I have run into that before.  I've seen compasses inlaid in to handles on wading staff and walking sticks, but not rod handles.  Is there any possibility these could be wading staffs instead of fishing rods?  Where on the handle are the compasses imbedded?

If you can provide a bit more information, I'll keep looking.

Thanks,  Joe

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Joe-The handles are metal with cork grips. They are 2 piece casting rods. Approx. 5' long The reel seats are german silver.the conpasses are on the butt of the rod. Thanks again for any info. Brenda

Answer
Hi Brenda,

Thank you for the additional information.

I can't associate any maker name with the rods, but I can provide an average value for two piece bamboo casting rods in Good-Very Good condition.  Rods of this type tend to be valued in the $40-$60 range.

The compass is an unusual feature.  As I said, these are common on wading staffs and walking sticks.  This sounds very much like the description of the handles used for wading staffs.  Perhaps someone used cork handles destined for a wading staff on the rods?   It may have been a special gimmic to increase sales ro otherwise set the rods apart from  the rest of the pack.  Kind of a clever idea.

Thanks,  Joe