Milwards Flyrover bamboo rod

Question
We were given a Milward's Flyrover 34484 9'5 SFR #7 fly rod. Our uncle came to visit from Holland and he gave us the rod for our hospitality. It is in excellent shape. We were curious to know more about the rod and if possible a value. A suggestion has been made that we hang it on a wall as a decoration and not to fish with it. The uncle has since passed away.

Answer
Hi Stephanie,

My reference books have only a few of the Milwards rod models listed.  It doesn't include the Flyover model, but Milwards are typically considered quality rods.  Vinatge fly rods in the shorter lengths are typically more desirable than the longer rods.  At 9'6' this rod would probably be valued in the $150-$300 range depending on actual condition.  There are Milwards fans out there and you might get a bit more if the rod warrants a higher value and the potential buyer is motivated.

Overall condition typically includes assessing the rod, the bag and the tube, if one came with the rod originally.  The more original the rod and accompanying storage components, the better.  Things like rusty guides, chunks missing from the cork, finish problems, delamination of the bamboo strips, cracked ferrules or anything missing from the rod will lower the value.  You indicate the rod is in excellent shape. There are some nuances that an experienced appraiser would look for, but realistically, if it looks good and there are no obvious defects, it probably is in good shape.

As to fishing with the rod...if it is sound and shows no signs of breakage or splitting along the bamboo shaft, it should be fishable.  If you wish to keep it as is for personal reasons since it was a gift from your uncle, hang it on the wall.  These vintage rods were made to be fished with and will normally stand up well to prolonged use.  

Thanks,  Joe