Antique Bamboo Fly Rod Identification & Value - Expert Insights

Question

six piece rod  

case it came in   My father has an antique bamboo fly rod that belonged to his grandpap. He is curious to find out who the manufacturer was nd maybe the year it was made nd the value.

Answer
Hi Sarah,

Probably from the 1890-1920 time frame based on the hand made tiptop, the ferrules and the reel seat.  Probably made by Chubb/Montague, Horrocks-Ibbotson or possibly one of the smaller rod making companies.  I see these from time to time; I think I have two of them around here now.

Value would be in the $35-$60 range depending on actual condition.  The rod has some damage, one or two short sections, and needs one ferrule and some work.

These are interesting rods (to me anyway) and indicate very early attempts to create a good backpacking rod.  The number of sections (and ferrules) can make the rod cast a little differently...but still work well enough to catch fish.

Thanks,  Joe