South bend Reel

Question
Just wondering what fly fishing reel(s) was the  South Bend company producing in 1952.

Answer
Hello Tom,

While I have seen, owned and maintained a few vintage South Bend fly reels (all were well built single action reels). I have never been a collector and cannot immediately tell you of the 1952 models or if they were actually producing them that year. I do know that the company was in business manufacturing lures from the late 1800's (I believe 1895 or '96) but I am uncertain of when they began producing fly reels or purchased a company that was already manufacturing them. I currently have no catalogs nor repair manuals from that time period that would allow me to give you a definitive answer.

Ala's, all is not lost! Not long ago, I found and visited a website called the "southbendcollector.com" and have been told they have a collection of catalogs that is very extensive. I will try to make contact with them over the next few days and see if I can get you an answer to your question that you deserve.

I do know they were certainly still producing or having produced fly rods stemming from their purchase of the Cross rod company of Massachusetts and I have repaired a number of split cane rods from the late 1920's. After 1956, when the company was sold I believe that the company contracted with various manufacturers to produce the reels to their specs.

So please feel free to recontact me regarding your request and with some good luck, I will have a clear, decisive answer within a few days.

Thanks for the question!