Heddon #115 Fly Rod - estimated value

Question
Joe,
I have a tube with a Heddon Premier Fly Rod #115-9'-2.5-HCHorD written on the bamboo. The rod is in near mint condition.  There are 4 pieces inside a green wrap. There are 2 end sections of the rod with different tips one being a tiny bit larger than the other. Is this of any value or something I should keep around for my grandson to own one day as a collector item. I would appreciate any guidance you may have.

Answer
Hi Gene,

The Heddon Premier #115 fly rod was made by Heddon exclusively for Sears as was the #125 Expert model.  These are good quality rods with pretty fair collector value.  The Premier model #115 in 9'0" length with original tube, bag and all four sections in "near mint" condition would be valued in the $400-$500 range.

The "2 1/2" designator is the coding used by Heddon for the ferrule size used on this rod.  The "HCH or D" are the line ratings for this rod that translates to modern line ratings of 7wt for WF and DT lines or 6wt for level lines.  If you want to fish with the rod, it should do well with the 7wt line.  If you want to keep it as is for your grandson, the value will almost certainly increase over time.

This model Heddon rod is popular among collectors.  Shorter fly rods always have greater value and greater collector interest, but the 9'0" length will retain its appeal ands value over time.

The difference in tip section diameter is usually attributed to the smaller tip being best for trout and panfish while the larger tip being best for bass.

Sounds like you have a nice rod that is well worth preserving.  It's also likely to be a good rod to fish with if you decide to use it.

Thanks,  Joe