Bamboo rod purchase

Question
Hi Rich,

  I had a question about a bamboo rod I am looking to purchase. I have been fly fishing for a number of years and am about to take first steps into cane rods. For my first cane rod I wanted to get something that was vintage, but wouldn't break the bank. I have no interest in keeping it 'under glass', I would like to find something that I can fish with a lot.
 After exhaustively researching and looking on the net, I've found a collectors site that is selling an 'Orvis 99' 8 foot 5/6 weight in excellent condition. I know that the 99's weren't the best rods Orvis made, but I was wondering if you think this is a good purchase for my first cane rod. I fish mainly small to medium sized streams and would like something that's got a bit faster action than my current graphite rod. Something with a slight bit more backbone. This rod is also right in my price range at $400.00

 I just want to be sure I won't be disapointed with the rod, but I'm pretty sure Orvis never made a 'bad' fishing rod.

Thanks Rich!

Rob

Answer
Rob,
Orvis may have never made a bad rod but they did make some that were less than popular. I would find out the weight of this rod, if I were in your shoes. I recently saw a 20 oz Orvis impregnated rod. Your graphite rods are usually under 3 oz. A decent fishing tool should be under 5 oz. I just looked up an 8 ft 99 as  4 1/4 oz.

I think you are going to have trouble finding any bamboo rod that is faster than your graphite, unless your graphite has the action of a broom handle. The metal ferrules slow the action of bamboo rods.

According to Antique & Collectable Fishing Rods: Identification & Value Guide Homel, Dan. 1997 (2nd edition 2000), the 8 1/2  ft model Model "99", c.1955, (2 sections)  has an extra tip valued at  $110, 235 and $395 for poor, good, excellent condition respectively.  $400 seems high for a 3 piece rod - fine for 2.

Condition:
Excellent means like brand new - very few people who tell me their rods are in excellent condition are accurate.

For people who have not seen a lot of bamboo rods, condition seems subjective. It is not. When I give the condition of a rod there are specific observable reasons.

Homel's summary of excellent condition:
(1) Fine, original finish
(2) No missing sections or components
(3) No breaks, fractures, dirt or wear
(4) Shows evidence of only minimal use
(4) Original bag and case with tags and labels

And lastly everyone in the business with even a small  smattering of morality always offers an inspection guarantee. So from 3-7 days after you buy your rod you should be able to return it for a refund, if in shipped  condition.
Luck,
Mac

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