Line Weight/Type

Question
Rich,

I've had an old bamboo fly rod lying around the house for some years now. I cannot find any identifying marks for the maker or the suggested line weight. I don't figure it's worth very much but it feels really good in my hand. I want to give fly fishing a try and I want to use this rod. I searched the internet and came across a method to  figure out what weight line I should use. The method included measuring the length of the rod and then clamping it horizontally and applying weight to the tip until it reached a percentage of the rod length from the floor. I didn't go into great detail on the method but I'm sure you've heard of it. This method suggests that I use #4 line. Finally to my question(s): Would you consider this to be reliable and if it isn't, suggest a more precise method and should I use a line that imitates silk?

Thanks for your time.
Joe

Answer
Joe,
That method to the best of my knowledge was developed for graphite. Send me an Internet address for this method,  please.
This is how I  determine an un marked bamboo rod line weight. I have several reels with line weights 2- 10. I start with 6 weight because most 9 ft trout rods were 6 weight. The I test cast until it feels right. I offer this service for free. I am in Denver , you ?
If not near me, what you do is go to the fly shop and ask if you can test cast some reels. If they are like most fly shops I have been to, they will give you reels with 4-7 weight to try.
One of the problems with bamboo rods is the diameter of the old silk lines was smaller that modern lines.
You can send pictures to [email protected]
It's very likely a 6 weight line will cast well on this rod.
Luck,
Mac


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