My 3 Forks was made in Korea. Newer versions are made in China. I’ve never cast a Chinese one so I can not comment on those.
It was perhaps 20 years ago when I first bought a 3 Forks 3 wt. It was not well put together like later version, the guides looked “funny” but it was such a great casting rod I could not believe it. Some years later a friend wanted to try fly fishing. I gave him the 3 Forks. As I was trying to show him how to cast with the rod I knew I had made a mistake getting rid of that rod. I bought another. The 3 Forks 3 wt is as good as any 3 wt I have ever cast.
UPDATE:
So, I paid a visit to the local fly shop and walked out with something I hope will be a great tool. Picked up a Redington Form game training rod. Comes with actual fly line and pictorial instructions. I’m hoping this will help my son learn the casting stroke before hitting the water.
Keeping the Three Forks at the top of the list for when we go to buy him a rod for the water.
Thanks everyone.