Bamboo rod builders

[PiKapp]

This may be a hard question to answer but I am looking for all the help possible. I am hoping to get into the bamboo game but still being a college student really shortens my options. I am looking for respected builders or maybe smaller companies who build a solid bamboo rod. I am hoping for around $400-$600 . I really do want a new rod because I am a nervous wreck about buying used rods. I guess I am just looking for advice or any info some of you all might have. Thanks in advance.

[FlyFishingTexas]

PiKapp,

If you are careful (and I stress CAREFUL) there are some pretty good deals on Ebay. I've even seen some Orvis bamboo rods going for $500.

[Rolemodel]

Aj Thramer is a well respected Bamboo Builder and will have a nice Taper to offer you.Most Builders start at $750-$950 but most being $950,AJ starts at $550 and may work with you on certain Models he Builds.His return rate is about rare after Building 1200 or so Rods so you can't go wrong.Don't be fooled at the low low cost for one of his Rods!His motto is" His intent is to build rods that people can afford and want to use "You can Email him at ajthramer@hotmail.com.You can search and see some of the available Rods Sellers have from Thramer.Just do a Google Search for Thramer Rods.AJ often visits the Bamboo Fly Rod Site

(http://p205.ezboard.com/fclarksclassicf ... =991.topic)

It's a cool Site and you'll learn more about Bamboo Rods.

It's true, finding a 400-500 dollar new bamboo rod of any quality is going to be tough. I know of some $595 rods, Elkhorn, does anyone have any experience with them?

Bamboo is certainly an area where you'll want to cast before you buy!

Get with me if you decide to go used. Maybe we can figure out what you'd like in vintage rods and I can help recommend some specific models to look for.

Best,
R

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[url=http://www.native-waters.com:b6d60]http://www.native-waters.com[/url:b6d60]

[Rolemodel]

Here's some Bamboo Rods you want to look at on Ebay.

Item number: 7142186849
Item number: 7141969480
Item number: 7143229125

[CTCaneman]

AS some have mentioned, there are decent deals on Ebay. Some makers just oout of your price range, 2/1 rods knock a few $$ off the price. If you have some time on your hands, I would suggest an impregnated, ferruled rod. AJ makes them available throough some of the dealers. You could get a rod blank, reel seat, cork grip guides and thread in your price range.
Pete

[SPUNFISHER]

Try this site: [url=http://www.split-bamboo.com/:2e28e]http://www.split-bamboo.com/[/url:2e28e]

[kengore]

One path to an affordable bamboo rod would be to buy a blank from a builder and conmplete it your self.

I've seen several blanks in the $250 range and you could put the rest of the componants on for under $100. Lots of rod building info avaialable on this sight.

Ricks rods has some McGill Wright blanks in that price range...

[url=http://www.ricksrods.com/:ab5fe]http://www.ricksrods.com/[/url:ab5fe]

They might also have a 'project rod', a mid range value rod that needs refinishing.

[Rolemodel]

Beware of Cheap Bamboo Rods!!They're all not created equal!It's like Apples and Oranges.They're made in China and are not like there Counter Parts the American Rod Builders Build!Split-Bamboo wants $349 just for the Rod and $35 more for the Rod Case.It=$385 leaving you with a difference of $165 more than you'd have to Pay to get a awesome Rod which isn't very much more.I honestly don't think its a bad Idea for a Beginners but with a $165 more option would make me lean for the Thramer.I also heard that "If you can finish a Graphite Blank you cab Finish a Bamboo Rod.

[anglerdave]

PK

Check this out: [url=http://www.dwhildebrandrods.com.:c40f5]www.dwhildebrandrods.com.[/url:c40f5] I know him and have an 8wt bass rod that he built for me. Before he moved to OH, I cast just about everything he made. Nice work and nice price.

Dave