Shakespeare bamboo rod identification

Question

Logo  

Model number?   Hello Mr.McGaughey

I have just purchased a shakespeare bamboo rod. I have tried to do my own research but unfortunatley my findings have been limited. Any help on identifying year made, worth etc. and if it could be used to fish would be appreciated. I have attached 2 photos but in case they dont come through here is a description.
The rod is a 3 piece bamboo rod and is 8.5 feet long. The logo says Shakespeare in black sitting in an irregular gold rectangle which in turn sits in a green oval. The top of the green oval says "Honor Built-Honor Sold" the bottom says Made in USA.  Opposite logo has A-1308-7-8 1/2'. Above that says E.L. Harris which is on all three pieces of the rod.

Thank you
Jeremiah

Answer
Jeremiah,
The decal makes the rod a pre-WW II rod.  The model number (1308) indicates about 1940-1942 as the date of manufacture.  The model 1308 is also called the Premier, sold for $18.00 when new and should have red wraps with gold tipping wraps.  This model was not made after WW II.

Shakespeare did not actually build rods.  They had other companies make their rods and put the Shakespeare label on the rods.  This is a common practice in the rod making business and one that is still done today.  Among the rod makers who built Shakespeare bamboo rods were Montague, Heddon and South Bend all of which would have been actively building Shakespeare rods at the time this rod was made.  The 1308 was likely made by either Montague or South Bend...I would guess probably South Bend.

Price Book:
Antique & Collectible  Fishing Rods: Identification & Value Guide Homel, Dan. 1997 (2nd edition 2000) add about 30% for age of book.
Homel gives the Shakespeare 9' model Model 1308 "Premier" trout fly rod 9' c.1940
fly rod with an extra tip, 3 sections the  value of  $25, 75 and $140 for poor, good, excellent condition respectively.          
Not the worst bamboo fly rod but not considered to be a great rod either.
Homel seems high but check ebay.

I believe  E.L. Harris put his name on all parts of his rod.

History :
http://www.scripophily.net/shcosoca1.html
http://www.shakespeare-fishing.com/history/index.shtml

Luck,
Mac

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