Has anyone seen the work that Charlie Reading (of Reading's Fly Shop in Missouri) does in rod building? I don't think I have seen better work anywhere. However, if you happen not to know him and his work, you would not be able to compare someone you know with him. He is the first rod builder I ever saw using feathers and gold hooks and gold or silver chains in his decorations on rods - this was back in the 70's I recall. He has even built wedding rings into his rods. I had a couple rods made by him and they are works of art.