Vintage Rods and Tackle

From time to time we will offer vintage and used fly fishing tackle. Please check back often for new additions. We are always interested in taking consignments of used cane rods, but visitors please take note: we do not provide free tackle appraisals! Because the value of any fishing collectible is largely based on condition, and because researching values is so time consuming, we can not offer free, sight-unseen tackle appraisals. If you'd like us to appraise your tackle for a fee, please contact us for more information and we'd be happy to assist you. If you've arrived here via a search engine because you've found an old piece of tackle and hope to learn its value, we are very sorry but we are unable to help you without seeing the tackle and charging a fee. Thanks!

Additional Note: All items are covered by our 3-day return policy. The customer can inspect or lawn cast any item for up to 3 days after receipt. If you receive an item and wish to return it, you will receive a full refund for the item provided it's returned promptly in the condition it was sent. All returned items must be insured for the purchase price and packed appropriately. Please contact us before returning any item.

We keep our consignment rates low to help you save money. The single best way for you to decide on an item is to inspect it yourself. We do everything possible to describe items fairly...it does us no good to send you an item that you will only want to return. Let us know if we can provide additional pictures or if you'd like to make an offer via email.

Keep up with our latest offerings by signing up for our mailing list!

Join our FREE Email Mailing List

Rods

Orvis Wes Jordan 8', 2p., 2 t. 4 3/8 oz. for HCH (DT7) line, medium action. Gorgeous, darkly flamed Orvis impregnated cane w/3 x 3 node spacing, chocolate translucent wraps over chrome guides w/two Mildrum-style strippers on butt, polished d/l aluminum screw lock with walnut spacer, 6 ½” cigar grip, serial number 43555(1966). Owner’s name engraved on butt cap and written on rod, along with “By Wes Jordan”.

Near mint, with only the slightest signs of use. Straight as the day it was made, size 13 ferrules snug, bluing 95%. Made by the great master Wes Jordan. Original well-traveled labeled case and bag. A great large water, large fish rod, with a pleasant, relaxed casting style that will cast line a country mile with little effort. As with many Orvis rods I believe this will cast one line weight under(DT6) best. An incredible value in cane rods, take this baby fishing! $1250.

Arne Mason Rod Case Top quality bridal leather with brass tube, 50” OAL. This was originally paired with the Wes Jordan rod above. Fantastic condition, some oxidation of the brass tube under the cap as normal. Impeccable workmanship. $350 paired with the rod, $400 without.

Orvis Medium Spinning 7’ 2p 1t, for 3/8 oz. Dark Orvis impregnated cane w/3 x 3 node spacing, chocolate translucent wraps over chrome spinning guides, 11 1/2” spinning grip w/polished aluminum slide bands, serial number 36294(1963).

In VGC, slight set in tip, ferrules smooth and snug, dark cane is gorgeous and could be easily brought back to original with a little buffing, wraps in great shape! Original bag and aluminum tube sans label. $325

Orvis Superlight Spinning 6’6” 2p 1t, for 2-3lb test. Dark Orvis impregnated cane w/3 x 3 node spacing, chocolate translucent wraps over chrome spinning guides, 10” spinning grip w/polished aluminum slide bands, serial number 21231(1957).

In good condition, rod is straight with a nice ferrule fit, dark cane is gorgeous and could be easily brought back to original with a little buffing, wraps in great shape but butt wrap appears to be factory re-wrapped as it is lighter in color, grip soiling. Nice light action! Original bag and well-traveled aluminum labeled tube. $325

Oliver’s of Knebworth Made in England 9’ 2p 1t. for 5(?) line. Slow action. Dark caramel cane w/3x3 node spacing and the smallest pressed nodes I’ve ever seen, blued brass ferrules w/ferrule plug, braced chrome guides, forest green CP silks tipped yellow with boodles of closely-spaced intermediates, hook keeper and spiral writing on shaft, 7” full Wells grip terminating in an aluminum U/L screwlock seat w/Bakelite spacer and rubber end butt.

A highly regarded, handmade English rod in near mint condition, straight and tight, with a pleasing slow, wet-fly type action. With original canvas bag with snaps and red ties. $395

Orvis Battenkill 7', 2p., 2 t. 3 3/8 oz. for HGD (WF6) line, fast to medium-fast action. Orvis impregnated cane w/3 x 3 node spacing, chocolate translucent wraps over chrome guides, polished d/l aluminum screw lock with walnut spacer, 6 ½” cigar grip, serial number 59267.

Original bag and case, although the bag has shrunk(?) a bit and doesn’t cover full length of rod(about 1” short). Cane excellent as is the writing, grip soiling, some scratches on end cap, bluing and ferrule fit excellent, straight and tight. Overall excellent and lightly fished and well cared for. This rod feels quite tippy and I think would be well-suited to a DT5 or even DT4 line. Fantastic value! $795

J.D. Wagner Custom Signature Series 8’6" 3p. 2t. for DT5 This rod was made as a sort of blend between our Classic and Signature Series lines, so it’s a one-of-a-kind build. This rod features hollow-built, lightly flamed cane, mirror matched tips, oxidized ferrules wrapped black, bronze snakes and agate stripper wrapped a light golden brown tipped claret, 6” full Wells grip, terminating in a NS D/L cap and ring of my own making, stamped with our name, with a harmonizing figured olive burl spacer.

A medium action rod that feels light in the hand. Unfortunately, health issues precluded the owner from ever fishing this rod, so it has been lawn cast only, and is in its as-delivered state. $2,550

Walton Powell 7’6” 2p 2t. for Dt4-5 line. Tempered and oiled cane w/2x2 node spacing, red-brown CP silks sealed with varnish over chrome guides and ceramic stripper. NS step down ferrules w/witness marks, w/decorative wraps between tip guides and on butt section, 6” full Wells grips with wire hook keeper, anodized aluminum U/L screw lock seat with rosewood spacer, butt signed ‘a Walton Powell rod’, serial number 12-2-87.

In immaculate condition, straight and tight, this rod has a crisp and delicate action. With unlabeled bag and tube. $1,050

H.L. Leonard Model 38L Baby Catskill 7' 2p, 2t for DT2 line. 2.3 oz. Leonard blond cane, 3x3 node spacing, Chinese red C/P wraps, black snakes and Mildrum-style stripper, 4 1/2" cigar grip terminating in a finely-knurled downlocking NS C/R seat with mortised butternut spacer. Cap impressed “H.L. Leonard Rod Co. Makers”, Size 9 step down ferrules with witness marks.

The consigner of this rod purchased it from the late(and very wonderful) Joe Garman in 1988, who recommended to him some touch up work by rodmaker Brad Stevens. An invoice for this work is taped to the original case documenting the work(signing the rod with the owner’s name, re-varnishing the butt section, polishing the guides, etc).

Overall condition is very good, ferrule fit excellent, slight fishing sets as could be expected in a rod of this vintage with such fine and delicate tips. The feel of this rod in hand is indescribably delicate and fine!!! Poplin bag w/stiffener sans hang tag, case and cap. Small label inside cap reads “Hap Mills Made This Rod”. $1950.

Stevens Model 706 Proto: 7’ 2p 2t for 6 wt line. Serial number 85021 on all sections. Flamed cane, spiral node arrangement, bronze C/P silks tipped black over dark Perfection guides and Mildrum stripper, oxidized step down ferrules, 5” Powell type grip terminating in an aluminum C/R seat with figured walnut spacer, novelly-made so end of spacer is visible.

This is the first rod I’ve ever seen by Connecticut builder Brad Stevens, the owner of which acquired from the late Joe Garman. Although the rod and case indicate use with a 6 line, I can only assume that is a WF designation and would be fine with a DT5. Nice overall workmanship in VG+ condition with some minor grip soiling and varnish loss/digs on the reel seat spacer. Feels nice in hand and is an interesting and very rare example of this maker’s work, with a nice clean overall look reminiscent of the great Jon Parker. (Until I saw this rod I never heard of this builder and could find little on the internet about him!)

Original bag and labeled tube: $1,050

Payne Model 102 8', 2p, 2t for DT5/6 line, 4.2 oz. Old restoration. Oxidized NS impressed "Payne, Reg. US Pat Off" and “SOLD BY ABERCROMBIE AND FITCH CO NEW YORK”. C&R seat over dark cedar spacer, brown C/P wraps tipped yellow, with red and yellow tipping at hook keeper and ferrules, cleaned 5 ½”" cigar grip from 3/8” wide rings with some ridging. Typical wear/dings on C/R seat and spacer, ferrule bluing intact. Smooth ferrule fit with a nice ‘pop’, both tips slight sets but amazingly straight overall given age. One tip down 3/8”. Classic taper! Old bag sans hang tag and unlabeled tube. $1,950

L.J. Downes Rod Company: I was sad to hear my good friend L.J. (Jim) Downes is closing his production rod shop to spend more time with his wife, kids and grandkids….and, to do a little more fishin’ and less workin! Jim still plans to make a limited number of rods for good friends and best customers as time and inclination permits, which is fortunate for his many fans in the bamboo rod community.

Jim’s company motto is ‘Cane Rods That Work’ and he should know: an expert and elegant caster and angler on the stream, Jim knows exactly what makes a rod work, and I’ve never cast one of his rods I didn’t fall in love with. Jim modestly claims he doesn’t make ‘art’ and focuses on how his rods perform, but I would disagree, feeling these are all quite handsome with an eye for a sort of ‘peppy harmony’. We are fortunate to have on offer several of Jim’s rods, all unused shop rods and/or near mint. Some have been lawn cast only, but none have been fished, and all of them- as his motto claims- work very well indeed!

L.J. Downes Rod Company 73- 15-10 Hollow Prototype 7’3”, 3p, 2t for DT5 line. Flamed cane in a light caramel ala Jim Payne w/3x3 node spacing, mirror matched tips, chrome snakes and bright hardware wrapped in CP copper thread tipped black w/light yellow accents, agate stripper, 6” cigar grip, oxidized D/L NS cap and ring seat w/light colored wood spacer to match cane, bright NS Super Z ferrules. Original bag and labeled Downes tube.

Weighing in at 3.8 oz. this rod has a delightful and very crisp, fast DF action! Mint, as new. Offered at $1,595

L.J. Downes Rod Company ‘Heddon Featherweight’ 8’, 2p, 2t for DT4 line. Richly flamed cane w/3x3 node spacing, mirror matched tips, black snakes and oxidized hardware wrapped in CP chocolate wraps tipped black, agate stripper, 6” cigar grip, oxidized D/L NS cap and ring seat w/highly figured and stained curly maple spacer. Original bag and labeled Downes tube.

This rod has a sweet, medium and progressive dry fly action modeled on the rare Heddon Featherweight series. Mint, as new. Original bag and labeled Downes tube. Offered at $1,495.

L.J. Downes Rod Company ‘Sloan’s Parabolic’ 7’10”, 2p, 2t for DT5/WF6 line. Flamed cane in a light caramel ala Jim Payne w/3x3 node spacing, mirror matched tips, swelled butt, black snakes and oxidized hardware wrapped in translucent orange thread, agate stripper, 6” cigar grip, oxidized D/L NS cap and ring seat w/figured walnut spacer. Original bag and labeled Downes tube.

The swelled butt gives a lucky owner the best of all worlds: a powerhouse parabolic in nature with a s. 14 ferrule, but with a swelled butt doesn’t suffer as some pure parabolics by a lack of ‘lift’ when getting large fish near at hand. Mint, as new. Original bag and labeled Downes tube. Lists at $1,595, offered at $1,495.

Schliske ‘The Big T’ 7’6” 2p, 2t for DT4: Medium flamed cane, 3 x 3 node spacing, bronze C/P wraps over bronze snakes, 3 signature/measuring wraps at 16, 18 and 20”, 6 ½” grip terminating in a D/L cap and ring with spalted maple spacer.

A used rod by this Ft. Collins, CO builder, has grip soiling and both tips have significant sets which could be removed to bring her up to like-new spec. Rod feels very light in the hand(hollow built?) with a tippy yet progressive character. $745

Edwards 'Bristol' Bristol Built f1318-8 1/2' 3p 2t for 7/8 6.0 0z.: D/L screw lock over threaded bakelight spacer w/hooded NS band and end cap, 6 1/2" Western grip, bakelight winding check, NS strap and ring keeper, model signed in white ink w/"Bristol Built' decal. Maroon CP wraps tipped gold at all ferrules, guides and tip tops, all sections appear to have been revarnished save the butt section, butt ferrule needs to be reset, one tip down 3/8", grip soiling, otherwise VG with a powerful action. $350 bag and tube.

Edwards 'Quadrate' No. 36, 9' 3p 2t for 6/7 6.5 0z.: U/L screw lock over threaded bakelight spacer w/hood under 6 1/2" Western grip, bakelight winding check, bent wire loop hook keeper, model signed in faded white ink "Edwards Quadrate #36". Brown CP wraps tipped gold at all ferrules, guides and tip tops, Size 18 and 13 bright squared step down ferrules, all sections in original varnish and wraps, varnish good but a little soft. No grip soiling, appears immaculate and never fished with a powerful action. Section vary slightly in length, as built. Original bag and tube w/remnants of label. $995

Classic Reels

Orvis 1874 Fly Reel 2.840” diameter, .458” wide, 4.4 oz. , RHW only. Nickel plated brass. This is the second version of this groundbreaking reel, c. 1880, and features a pleasant click and riveted construction and an incised line around the top of the foot. The narrowness of this reel was designed to allow line to be wound quickly and evenly and the perforations an aid to drying one’s line. In very good condition, comes with original black walnut case with slot cut to hold the detachable nickel silver crank and hard rubber knob. Hinges are loose on case. $1,300

Orvis 1874 Fly Reel Reproduction 2.880” diameter, .595 wide, 6.5 oz with line and backing. The 1874 was so successful it was reissued in many iterations over the years. This later one comes with its walnut case which contains a spare crank and oil port cover. In very fine condition with a couple minute mars on one end of the foot from mounting on a rod. $495

Unmarked Leonard Mills/Julius Vom Hofe(?) Raised Pillar Fly Reel 2.710” OD, 1” wide. Aluminum frame and spoolsides with nickel silver screws, foot, and crank. Ebonite side plates and crank knob, half-handle crank, aluminum bearing cap.

A super smooth reel with virtually no spool wobble or side play, the crank knob could use a little lubrication to turn more freely. Minor corrosion to the frame but no cracks or deep scratches in the rubber…could polish up to be a stunner. The click sounds the same forward and reverse so could be set up to wind either way. Foot appears to have been slightly bent at one end and gently peened back into place as it sits flat and fine. Will hold up to a DT5 line and backing and would be a perfect aesthetic fit for a cane rod. The workmanship and tolerances held in the making of this reel amazed me. $625

Hardy Flyweight: Made in England, 2 ½”, 3.3 oz with line and backing. An early 1960’s example with two screw latch, reversable two-screw line guard bearing the “BRIT REG’D DESIGN 89521” stamp, smooth aluminum foot, duplicated check, wood knob.

While this reel has a lot of edge wear/patina to the finish and marring/corrosion of the foot, it is extremely smooth and quiet, w/soft zippered case. $245

Meisselbach & Bro Expert No. 17 3.1” in Diameter 7.8 oz with line and backing. Stamped and rolled nickel plated brass w/wood knob, on/off click and novel design. Some corrosion but would polish up nicely. This one needs some work as the pawl won’t stay engaged with the gear. $40

Orvis Battenkill Disc 5/6 w/Extra Spool 3.1” diameter, .7” wide spool, 5.8 oz. with line and backing. Set up for LHW, but reversible. Very smooth and wide-ranging disc drag with a pleasing, quiet click, smooth aluminum foot. It almost new condition with just a couple extremely minute mars in the finish, with a DT5 Cortland Sylk line and backing in great shape and original zippered pouch and extra spool. $295.

Orvis Hydros SL III 3.850 diameter, .930 spool width, 7.4 oz. with line and backing. Aluminum construction, large arbor design, ultra smooth and strong drag for lines 5/6/7. With a new line and backing, never used, with original box, paperwork, wrench and pouch. $195

Hardy Perfect 3 3/8” 8.7 oz w/backing, RHW, capacity for DT5 up to WF7. Anodized aluminum w/smooth aluminum foot, adjustable duplicated check, milky agate line guard, ebonite handle.

In near-mint condition with only the slightest signs of use, this set has a spare spool, the original box, zippered case and pamphlet. Reels of this era sometimes have some slop, but this is a fantastic example with no play or wobble. Just a lovely reel perfect for cane or graphite, in pristine condition. $675

Scientific Anglers System 6: 3 ¼”, 4.2 oz. RHW, anodized aluminum. Mint, unused, with original zippered case and box. Made in England by Hardy Brothers. $250

Orvis Battenkill V: 3 13/16”, 9.2 oz with a WF6 line and backing. LHW. Some edge rash to the frame, very smooth drag and quiet click. Made in England with an Orvis labeled pouch. $250

Islander No. 3: 3 7/8”, 15.4 oz with WF12 line and backing, LHW, but reversible, massive cork disc drag, gold color anodizing, smooth as silk. Used, but pristine with original pouch. $425

Hardy Angel 4/5 3 ½” 7.7 oz w/backing and WF-6 line, LHW. Anodized aluminum, fine and smooth adjustable drag with great range, quiet check, rims and faces unmarred, foot has the slightest signs of mounting, otherwise in extremely good condition. Original neoprene pouch. $349

Abel Pt. 5 2 ¾” 6.9 oz. Gorgeous deep black anodized aluminum finish, extremely smooth and wide-ranging drag. Some minute rash on edges, back and foot, but functionally excellent, a good user. Original pouch. $325

Pflueger Medalist #1498: 4” overall diameter, 10.8 oz. w/line and backing, RHW, adjustable drag, diamolite line guard, holds a WF10 line and 200 yards of backing. Some edge and face rash and faint scratches and minor corrosion on foot, but overall good. Would make a great salmon/grilse/bass/steelhead reel. Could use a good clean and lube to bring it its smoothest running condition. $49

Hardy Golden Prince 9/10: 3 ¾” Overall diameter, 10.2 oz with backing, RHW(but easily reversable), adjustable drag, reversable line guard, First Edition Serial number 44. Exceptional overall condition, with no rash/chips/scratches in the anodizing. Foot could use a polish.

This reel features a unique vertical pawl design that allowed the spool to be an incredible width along with a very thin and light back plate. The drag doesn’t have the widest range, but I’ve read online the spring can be tuned to an owner’s taste. With an old(but not original) Hardy soft case. $299

Thomas and Thomas Classic (TM) reel by Ross Reels. Black anodized w/engraved T&T logo on spool plate, backplate with aluminum drag cover w/T&T's famous angler in a top hat logo, LHW, wide ranging and smooth drag w/subtle click. Fair/Good overall condition with edge and foot wear to anodizing. Lined with backing. Suede pouches. $195

Thomas and Thomas Tournament reel by Regal: Black anodized aluminum, original T&T labeled soft case. This 3/12" LHW reel for 6-8 wt lines has a line and backing on it, but that's the only sign of it ever being used. Not even a mar on the reel foot. Excellent +, c.mid-1980's. $395

Plastic Rods and Miscellaneous

Thomas and Thomas Graphite XL968T 4p for #8 line. Serial number 14-351. Fast. Charcoal grey blank, chrome snakes with ceramic ring stripper, 7 ½” full Wells terminating in anodized U/L screw lock over cocobolo spacer with fighting butt. Some grip soiling but overall GC, with original labeled cordura tube and bag with stiffener. Would make a great steelhead/grilse/bass/pike/carp rod. $195

Hardy Accessories BLOWOUT!

Leather Single Fly Patch: $24.95 SALE $9.95

Leather Fly Dryer: $24.95 SALE $9.95

Leather Double Fly Patch: $24.95 SOLD OUT!

Leather Gink Holder: $19.95 OUT OF STOCK!

Leather Fly Wallet: $69.00 OUT OF STOCK!

Combination Tool(stainless steel nipper, hook hone, hook eye cleaner and knot tyer): $18.95 OUT OF STOCK!

Closeout! Flip Focals: Great solution for old eyes! 2.5 power! $7.99

Trout Music CD's: Great music for home/shop/fishing trips. $5 each.

The Lovely Reed, Jack Howell: NIB, $45

A River Runs Through It and Other Stories by Norman Maclean: First edition, 3rd printing, vg-fine w/DJ. Acquired from the author's son John Maclean and includes a signed letter about this book from him. $195 SOLD!

Fly Rods Galore by George Barnes: Signed, mint. $60

8 by Hoagy B. Charmichael, Signed $100, Mint. $95

Bogdan by Graydon Hilyard, VG $25 SOLD!

Forgotton Flies by Schmookler and Sills: Mint in original plastic bag, never opened $275 REDUCED! $250! SOLD!

More Books!

Books for Sale! The shop has gotten so crowded with machines and tooling it's reached a point where we can barely walk. Likewise, our bookshelves are overloaded and there's no room for new acquisitions, so I've decided to move some books from our library.

If you have an interest in these titles I can send a full description:

SALE: 20% OFF PRICES LISTED!

Forgotten Flies $350 SOLD!

Rare and Unusual Fly Tying Materials, Vol. 1 $600

Game Fishes of the Unites States $300 SOLD!

Split and Glued $250

Fishing Bamboo $225

Offers considered for one or all!

Finally, I have for sale 39 issues/CD's of the Powerfibers magazine, all save one unopened and just as received in our mailbox. Obviously mint, unused. $125 SOLD!

.............................................................................. Everything below this line has recently been SOLD!If you would like to see older sold items please visit our Vintage Tackle Museum..............................................................................................

Unmarked Nickel Silver Reel: 2.185”, .865 spool width, 4.3 oz. Nickel silver with bronze or brass arbor, ball wood handle is probably a replacement and doesn’t rotate freely on the crank, but this has a lovely watch-like click that favors setting up as a RH reel, but will work equally well as LHW. Beautiful scallop on backplate with finely knurled oil cap. Foot bears a stamped ‘4’ and has some slight marring from mounting on a rod. Classy! Polish up to be a stunner, or leave the patina and go fishing! $250 SOLD!

Orvis Baitcasting 5 ½’ for 3/8 oz. with detachable grip. Dark Orvis impregnated cane w/3 x 3 node spacing, chocolate translucent wraps over chrome baitcasting guides, detachable grip w/polished aluminum downlocking screw lock and cork foregrip, serial number 41395 (1965).

In very good condition, rod with a slight set, nice ferrule fit, dark cane is gorgeous and well-polished, wraps in great shape, slight grip soiling. Original canvas bag with pocket for grip and aluminum tube and bag for rod section. $275 SOLD!

Orvis Combination Spin 7’ 2p 2t, for 1/8 and ½ oz lures, 4 5/8 oz. Orvis impregnated cane w/3 x 3 node spacing, chocolate translucent wraps over chrome spinning guides, 10” spinning grip w/polished aluminum slide bands, serial number 79577(1976).

Near mint with only the slightest signs of use. Dead straight, crisp actions in both tips! Original bag and tube sans label with rod specifications engraved on cap. $575 SOLD!

Orvis Seven/Three 7', 2p., 2 t. 2 3/8 oz. for 3wt line, medium action. Orvis impregnated cane w/3 x 3 node spacing, chocolate translucent wraps over chrome guides w/ Mildrum-style stripper on butt, 5 ½” Superfine grip w/hook keeper adjacent, terminating in a mortised cork and dual aluminum band seat with aluminum butt cap, serial number 80039(c.1976).

In VGC, all writing intact, wraps sound, some cork ridging, 90% bluing intact, ferrules fit nicely, and cane could use a little buffing to bring it back to its original glow. Owner’s name inked on rod, easily removed if desired. Original bag and well-traveled labeled case with engraved rod details on cap. Super delicate action, perfect for fishing small streams or trico fishing!! $850 SOLD!

Orvis Midge 7'6”, 2p., 1 t. 3 5/8 oz. for HEH (DT 5 line), medium action. Orvis impregnated cane w/3 x 3 node spacing, honey translucent wraps over chrome guides w/ Mildrum-style stripper on butt, polished d/l aluminum screw lock with walnut spacer, 6” cigar grip w/hook keeper adjacent, serial number 48510(1967).

In GC, all writing intact, some cork ridging, 90% bluing intact, ferrules fit nicely, and cane could use a little buffing to bring it back to its original glow, tip has a slight fishing set. Original bag and well-traveled labeled case. Smooth, medium action. $475 SOLD!

R.L. Winston 7 1/2' 2p 2t for DT 4 line, 2 7/8 oz. Serial number 3599. Winston blond cane, 3x3 node spacing, mirror matched tips. D/L NS screw lock over satinwood(?) insert terminating in a 6 1/2" cigar grip, typical Winston wraps tipped red at hook keeper and ferrules, overwrapped Duronze ferrules, S/R hook keeper, bamboo winding check, gorgeous agate stripper, bronze guides.

This Brackett-era Winston has a very smooth medium-fast action in hand. Grip and reel seat immaculate, ferrules separate with a nice pop. This rod has been fastidiously cared for and appears new. The butt cap has been covered with a rubber bumper to prevent scuffing. One tip is slightly cocked at the ferrule as it came from the factory, but ferrules are snug and seat well. They sure knew how to make a nice casting tool at Winston when Glenn and the boys were in the shop! Original bag and case. $1,975 SOLD!

Orvis CFO I : 2 3/4" for DT1-3 lines, 3.9 oz. with line and backing: Two screw spool latch, nickel silver reversible line guard, adjustable click and pawl drag, smooth aluminum foot. A very nice CFO I made in England, with a very smooth drag and very little spool play/wobble, good condition with minute edge wear with labeled zippered soft case. A great vintage reel for cane or graphite, easily reversible for left or right hand wind. $305. SALE PENDING!

Orvis CFO IV 3 1/4" for DT5/6 lines. 5.5 oz. with line and backing. Two screw spool latch, nickel silver reversible line guard, adjustable click and pawl drag, smooth aluminum foot. A very nice CFO IV made in England, with a very smooth drag and no spool play/wobble and no edge rash, just a very minute amount of marring on foot from use. Labeled and zippered soft case. A great vintage reel for cane or graphite, easily reversible for left or right hand wind. $325 SOLD!

Walton Powell 7’ 2p 2t. for Dt4-5 line. Tempered and oiled cane w/2x2 node spacing, red-brown CP silks sealed with varnish over chrome guides and ceramic stripper. NS step down ferrules w/witness marks, w/decorative wraps between tip guides and on butt section, 6” cigar grip with wire hook keeper, anodized aluminum U/L screw lock seat with curly maple spacer, butt signed ‘a “Walton Powell” rod’.

In very good used condition, this rod has a crisp and delicate action. With labeled bag and tube. $850 SOLD!

Scientific Anglers System 7: 3 1/2”, 5.9oz with line and backing. RHW, anodized aluminum. Very fine with the slightest signs of use on the foot with original zippered case and box. Made in England by Hardy Brothers. $250 SOLD!

Orvis Battenkill 8', 2p., 2 t. 4 3/8 oz. for GBF8 (WF8) line, medium action. Orvis impregnated cane w/3 x 3 node spacing, chocolate translucent wraps over chrome guides, polished d/l aluminum screw lock with walnut spacer, 6 ½” cigar grip, serial number 67419(1972). MINT, UNUSED. Original bag and case with engraved hexagonal cap. A great large water, large fish rod, a nice relaxed casting style will cast line a country mile with little effort. An incredible value in cane rods, take this baby fishing! $1095 SOLD!

Orvis CFO I Disc: 2 ¾” diameter, 4.3 oz with a Sylk WF5 line and backing, set up for LHW but reversible, attractive bronze anodizing w/Orvis soft pouch. Flawless condition! $395 SOLD!

Ross Gunnison G-1 and Extra Spool 2 7/8” 6.7 oz. w/backing, for line weights 3-5. Black anodized aluminum, smooth adjustable and wide-ranging drag, quick change spool, pleasing click, set up for LHW. In good condition with some wear to the anodizing on the foot along with some edge rash. A great utilitarian reel. Soft pouches for reel and spool. $195 SOLD!

Fenwick Boron X 9’ 2p 1t for 5 weight line. Black boron blank, black wraps tipped gold over chrome guides, 7 ½” grip terminating in a D/L anodized seat over wood spacer. Overall good used condition, bag and original tube. $149 SOLD!

Peerless Model 2A: 3 1/4" x 1 5/32, 5.3 oz. For up to DT6 plus backing. Serpentine handle, adjustable click drag. Minute edge rash on foot, back rim. Case good. Comes with original box not shown in pictures and is lined with a very good SA Ultra 3 DT5. Set for LHW. $725 SOLD!

Orvis Deluxe 7', 2p., 2 t. 2 5/8” oz. for HDH line(DT6) line, fast action. Orvis impregnated cane, original chocolate translucent wraps, knurled dual aluminum slide bands with cork spacer, dainty 4 ½”” superfine grip, serial number 42141(1965).

A nice impregnated rod in a rarer Orvis model, the Deluxe was inspired by Lee Wulff and produced by Orvis only from 1952-1967! Atypical of most Orvis rods, this one has a crisp, dry fly action which I would think best suited for DT4 or 5 line.

In fair condition, this one is fishable as-is, but could use a little help to bring it back to its original glory. One tip down 1” at the butt end, the size 11 ferrule being reset but not blued. This ferrule was rather crudely lapped and clicks due to a too-loose metal to metal fit. The second tip ferrule is also worn loose and clicks. Both male ferrules appear original, however. Bluing worn on male and female ferrules, grip soiling, wraps a bit dry but original writing in good shape, cane in pretty good condition, could use a polish. Gray poplin bag with hang loop, and well-traveled original case with label. $595 SOLD!

J.D. Wagner Signature Series, Model 380 BP 3p 2t for 5-6 wt. Serial number 304-9: Made in March 2004, with hallmarks typical of the period: medium flamed cane, translucent claret wraps with single wrap black tipping, Venneri U/L NS screw lock with highly figured varnished amboena spacer, agate stripper, chrome guides and tip tops, 6” Western grip, bright NS ferrules. In good shape, mirror matched tips, 3x3 node spacing, hand-crafted rope-knurled sterling silver hook keeper, ferrules still snug. Elegantly signed with varnish and wraps finished to the highest standards of any rod, classic or contemporary. Shows moderate signs of use, one tip with a slight set, some cleaned grip soiling with slight ridging and scratches on end of butt cap and case.

The 380 BP is based on the classic Paul Young Para 15, but in 3-piece design, making it a great rod to travel with. With wet and dry tips, this rod has a heavy tip best suited for DT6 or WF7 line, and a lighter dry fly tip for DT5. I love fishing this rod, particularly with the heavy tip and WF7 with large flies like Hexes, mice and streamers. Medium action that rewards a slower casting stroke, letting the rod do all the work. $1,795 SOLD!

H.L. Leonard Allagash 7' 4p, 2t for DT4 line, serial number 1399. Leonard blond cane, 3x3 node spacing, Chinese red C/P wraps tipped gold at ferrules, Perfection snakes and Mildrum stripper, 5" cigar grip terminating in NS C/R seat with butternut spacer. Ferrules sizes 15, 11, and 8, each section is only 21 1/2" long!

Perhaps the rarest Leonard rod configuration ever made! Only 12 Allagash rods are thought to exist, most of which were made as 8' rods. In extremely fine, original condition w/original bag and labeled tube with HLL engraved brass cap. Rod posseses a very soft and lovely casting demeanor. The ultimate prize for the hard-core Leonard afficianado. REDUCED!!! $5,000 PRICE SLASHED MUST MOVE! $3,500 SOLD!

Mark Ruhe Swift River Fly Fishing 7’6”, 3p, 2t for DT4/5 line, 3 ¾ oz. Richly flamed cane, immaculately pressed nodes arranged in spiral fashion, mirror matched tips designated 1 and 2, oxidized NS Super Z ferrules, black Snake brand guides with agate stripper and hook keeper wrapped in translucent cinnamon tipped black, 5 ½” cigar grip terminating in an oxidized C/R seat with mortised cherry(?) burl spacer. Original bag and tube.

This rod is one of only about a dozen Mr. Ruhe of Spokane made for Swift River around 2000 before he quit building in 2006. All aspects of the rod are very competently executed with an attention to detail: very nice and clean planing, wrapping and varnish work. Despite being fished the rod is quite straight and in overall good condition. Some bluing wear to one male ferrule and the C/R seat, varnish could use a wash and polish to remove watermarks, some grip soiling but is otherwise in good shape. Aluminum ferrule plugs, ferrules fit smooth and snug and separate with a nice pop. A fast and tippy rod owing to a gradual swelled butt, great for flies large and minute and their accurate placement. Marked for a 4 line, I like it better with a DT5 to allow more of the rod to do the work. $945 SOLD!

Edwards 'Bristol' Bristol Built Model f18 8 1/2' 3p 2t for 5/6 5.2 0z.: D/L NS and aluminum screw lock over varnished walnut spacer w/hooded NS band and end cap, 5 7/8" Western grip, bakelight winding check, NS strap and ring keeper, model signed in white ink "Bristol". Maroon CP wraps tipped gold at all ferrules, guides and tip tops, agate stripper, bright NS step down ferrules, all sections in apparent original varnish and wraps. Mid or butt ferrule needs to be reset, slight click. Grip soiling, otherwise VG with a pleasing action. Original bag and labeled tube. $375 SOLD!

‘Wilson International’ by Sharpes of Aberdeen, 8'3" 2p 1t for DT5 or 6 line, Serial number 6973. Richly flamed and impregnated cane w/ 3 x 3 node spacing, oxidized brass ferrules w/witness marks, C/P bluish-green silks tipped gold, aluminum winding check, hook keeper, D/L aluminum knurled ring with hooded butt cap and skeleton cork spacer, 6” Powell-type grip, staggered ferrule design with bamboo and brass ferrule plug/stiffener.

Dermont Wilson was a noted authority on fishing the chalk streams of England and published a well-regarded book, ‘Fishing The Dry Fly’. He established a mail order tackle business that was later acquired by Orvis. In exceptionally fine condition a very rare Wilson-labeled rod made by Sharpes, the only sign of use being some slight grip soiling and light scratches to the butt cap. Ferrules seat smooth and snug with a nice ‘pop’, straight as the day it was made. Has a deep flexing action, would be a great rod for bigger water. Labeled for 5/6, I prefer a DT6 and letting the rod do the work. Original bag and hang tag. PVC case. Excellent+. $525 SOLD!

Hardy Viscount 130: 3 ¼” diameter, ¾” spool width, anodized aluminum reversible for L or R hand wind(set up for LHW), smooth adjustable drag, capacity up to DT6 or WF7 and 75 yards of backing!

A nice all-around reel, 70’s vintage, some slight edge marring but very smooth. Original plastic case with care sheet. $95 SOLD!

R.L. Winston 8' 2p 2t for DT 5 line, 3 1/8 oz. Serial number 4204. Winston blond cane, 3x3 node spacing, mirror matched tips. U/L NS screw lock over zebrawood(?) insert terminating in a 6" Western grip, typical Winston wraps tipped red at hook keeper and ferrules, overwrapped Duronze ferrules, nickel silver winding check and hook keeper, gorgeous agate stripper, black guides.

Rod has a very smooth medium action in hand. Only the slightest signs of use, grip and reel seat immaculate, ferrules separate with a nice pop. They sure know how to make a nice casting tool at Winston. Original bag and case. $1,850 REDUCED! $1,775 SOLD!

Thomas and Thomas Classic 7' 2p 1t for DT5 line, serial number 3101(1978). Impregnated. Medium flamed cane, 3 x 3 node spacing. Perfection guides and Mildrum stripper wrapped in off yellow translucent silk tipped cinnamon, dark brown silks at ferrules, 5" cigar grip terninating in superfine-type profile w/hook keeper above, D/L aluminum cap and ring with varnished walnut spacer, oxidized NS ferrules.

Without the usual swelled butt, this early T&T Classic bends down into the grip. Marked for a 5 line, this would also feel good with a DT4 and perhaps even a 3. Tip has fishing set, but otherwise in good condition considering its age. Original bag and case. $1,375 SOLD!

J.D. Wagner Patriot Series 7'3" 4-5 wt, 2p, 1t. This rod was custom-made for Fuller’s North Branch Outing Club and labeled "Fuller’s North Branch Outing Club, Patriot” and is in VG++ condition, with some slight loss of bluing on the oxidized C&R seat and minor grip soiling. This our best-selling taper, and I think if one word could describe it, it would be ‘smooth’. We find about half of the owner’s fish it with a DT4, half with a DT5, depending on one’s casting style. With deeply flamed cane, chocolate color CP silk, oxidized Super Z ferrules and nickel silver pocketed butt cap and ring....all the bells and whistles of our very popular Patriot Series rods, which run $845 new. With bag. Case showing some normal wear and still bearing our original Patriot Series label. $599 SOLD!

Copyright 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009,2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015,2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 J.D. Wagner, Inc.