First (and probably last) bamboo rod.

It all started when I won a bamboo blank in and internet contest. I had been wanting to try a bamboo rod, so this was the opportunity. The blank was an Anglers Roost - Hardy Marvel taper 7’6" 4wt. Unlike graphite blanks, the bamboo does not come with ferrulles, so I had to buy two sets since it was a three piece with two tips. Fortunately the sets come with two male parts, but the ferrules alone cost about $70.00

The grip is a Fenwick style grip turned from cork and burl rings. On this rod, I used snake guides with a red agate stripping guide. Wraps were candy apple red with black trim. The finish on the wraps and the rod is spar varnish rather the the typical epoxy wrap finish I use on Graphite rods. Once I got the rod finished and was about to put on the reel seat I found the rod was a little tip heavy. I decided to switch the reel seat around to make it downlocking. This presented a problem with the butt cap, which required a little innovation. An overcoat button, thread wrap and epoxy finish solved the problem.

I had trouble inserting the images, I could only get thumbnail links.

It’s a shame if you decide not to ever build another! Your work is beautiful! You’ll love the rod!

that is real nice, perhaps after you fish it you will find it to be worth the effort for a second one.

Eric

That is a fine rod. Let us know how you like casting it.