Rod Valuation

Question
I recently acquired a custom built 9' fiberglass fly rod built by Ruel Stayner.  I believe this rod was built sometime in the 1950's or 1960's.  I do know that Mr. Stayner had a fly fishing shop in Twin Falls, Idaho, and built custom rods for clients world wide.  I'm curious if this rod has any collector interest and if you have any knowledge of possible value.  Thank you.

Answer
Hi Jim,

Unfortunately, I do not know of Mr. Stayner or his rod work.  I'm also from Idaho but the other end of the state.  There are thousands of individual rod makers around the world who do excellent work and produce very nice rods.  I am sure this one is a nice rod as it sounds like he had a decent following.

The rod would likely have some collector interest among those familiar with Stayner's work.  Certainly the rod would be valued, based on actual condition, at or above the level of similar vintage glass rods.  Rod quality is a combination of the blank and components used, the design expertise of the maker, quality of workmanship and actual finished rod performance.  Two makers can begin with the same set of components and tools and produce vastly different rods simply because of their individual levels of expertise and quality of work.  I would not have an opinion as to current value of this rod without inspecting it.

Perhaps you can find an interested buyer by advertising the rod around Twin Falls.  Or, try one of the local fly shops for more information about Mr. Stayner.

Thanks,  Joe