You guys ARE good! Attaboys all around.

The gospel according to Sweibert says it authoratively. I can confirm Fenwick's 1973 first in graphite rods from the old testament (AJ McClane's Fishing Encyclopedia, 1974 edition). We seem to agree on Green's invention of the self ferrule with a tentative date around 1969.

As for other revolutionary ideas, I think the single footed guide is a good candidate.