bamboo fishing rod

Question
I have a, Montague-Redwing 1RWF Medium 9ft. Trout Fly Slit-Bamboo Rod. It appears to have never been used. Does it have any value? Thanks in advance for your help, Mike.

Answer
Hi Michael,

The Redwing is one of the better Montague models made from the 1930s through the 1950s. The reel seat and wrap colors may help narrow down the date the rod was made.  Redwings tend to have a strong collector following and be among the higher valued Montague rods.

If you can determine that this is an original rod that is essentially in Mint condition, it will have a reasonable value.  To qualify the rod needs to be basically perfect and have all original components, finish, bag, tube and no usage evident.  If the rod shows use or has any minor defects or missing components, the more appropriate rating could be Excellent condition.

If the rod has been restored, the rating will be dependent upon the actual condition of the rod and the quality of the restoration work.  Rating would likely be in the Very Good to Excellent range depending on the actual condition of the rod, bag and tube.

Value of the rod could be between $300 and $600 depending on condition...perhaps more if it is a truly nice example.  It would be worth your time to do a little research and locate an appraiser within a reasonable distance from your home who has enough experience and expertise to inspect the rod in person and provide you with a written appraisal of value and condition.  I suggest you be present when the appraisal is performed to fully understand the comments and reasons behind the appraisers conclusions.

Sounds like you have a nice rod.

Thanks,  Joe