Bamboo Rod Builders?

[AGrant]

So, I just sent in my order form for a Mike Clark South Creek ltd bamboo fly rod. There is a 3 year waiting list. No problem, gives me plenty of time to save the money. I selected Mike because of all the great things I've read about his rods. My question though is this: What other reputable bamboo rod makers are out there? I've sure there are a ton of makers, but who is making a truly quality rod right now? I'm purchasing the rod to fish, not just sit, but I have 2 sons and I will need 2 rods to eventually pass them on to my boys. Thanks.

[fishbum]

Take a look at Harry Boyd of the Boyd Rod Company. He is in Louisiana. He might be close enough for you to visit.

Jerry

[dunfly]

I've always liked Bill Oyster's rods. They are more like works of art and tend to be expensive.

http://oysterbamboo.com/index.html

If I ever hit the lottery, I'm going to buy one of his Epic Series.

[Ray]

There are dozens of awesome bamboo rod builders building amazing rods. I honestly believe today's builder are building some of the best rods ever made. Prices start around $700 and go up to almost $5000. I would suggest going to a larger show like Somerset and meeting the builders and the dealers. You can see, touch & cast a lot of rods before choosing. There are good deals in the used market too!

[Kaboom1]

I'll second Fishbum's recommendation and add a couple more...Ron Barch and Chris Bogart

Brad

[bobbyg]

I would recommend the following bamboo rod makers.
They do excellent work and are great to work with.
They also won't break the bank.

Dennis Stone.........http://www.stonerodco.com/
R.W. Lancaster......http://www.codella.com/
Chris Carlin.........http://www.carlinbamboo.com/
James Reid..........http://www.jmreidbamboo.com/

May fine makers working today and providing excellent rods and service.

[AGrant]

Thanks for the replies. I'll check them all out.

[dave potts]

Also, spend some time over on theclassicflyrodforum. They are mostly bamboo oriented.

Dave

[tigfly]

Earlier this year my wife (for our 30th anniversary) contacted Fishbum (he posted above) to build a hollow built 5 wt which she and Jerry surprised me with in January at the Northcoast Flyfishers Flytying Expo. Beautiful finish and such a light and smooth casting rod. I also have others by Don Recker of Ohio and Keystone Rods of Michigan. All make high quality rods.

[DOUGD1621]

Jim Downes is making some of the best rods in the country right now.

http://www.ljdownesrodcompany.com/

Doug
www.dehartofamaker.com