I recently picked up a bamboo rod that seems to cast very well with a 9 weight line, and probably would do nicely with an 8 as well. I am going to referb it eventually and plan on using it as is in the meantime, but I really want to try something lighter (in the 2-6 weight range, preferably 3-5).
My problem is in multiple areas. First, I’m in the part of the country where you don’t find bamboo fly rods in attics or garage sales. Second, I know virtually nothing about them at this point. Finally, I’m on a budget. I can’t shell out $300 for another rod. I don’t mind something older or something that needs rewrapped, but don’t want a junk rod that won’t ever cast decently no matter what you do to update it.
So, what should I be looking for, where do I reserch them and find them, and does anyone have any thoughts or pointers on this subject? Thanks.
Our own Octoberwoods (aka.Fishnbanjo,aka.Sante) is the man with this sort of stuff.
His personal site is loaded with the kind of information you’re looking for.
My computer locks up when go there so I won’t hot link, but you can find it easy enough.
It’s called “Fishnbanjos slice of life in cyberspace”
Here ya go ol’ blue. This should get ya started.
Mark
Thanks, I’ll give that a look tonight.
That is an excellent site with lots of good information.
I’m new here and just trying to get into this Fly fishing thing,actually I’ve always wanted to try it,I figure that being over 50,I better learn soon.I’ve picked up a couple rods in the past month,2 are bamboo,one I know is an HI Tonka Princess,it’s out getting some work done on now.I picked up another yesterday and would like to identify it,but when I go to that website it looks like there should be pictures but I don’t get any.Does that happen for anybody else?
A H&I Tonka Prince sounds like the answer, you can get one rebuilt (like new)for well under your $300 budget.
If you can find a copy of John Gierach’s “Fishing Bamboo”, its got alot of good info on bamboo flyrods.
Regards Mike