Frequently asked questions.

Who Crafted the Bamboo Rods many Collectors Admire Today?

Hardy (England) – Pioneering British maker, famed for craftsmanship and models like the Palakona; benchmark for quality since the late 1800s.
H.L. Leonard (USA) – Father of American bamboo rods; introduced the hexagonal split-cane design.
E.F. Payne (USA) – Known for honey-toned finish and meticulously consistent tapers.
E.F. Powell (USA) – Innovator of hollow-built bamboo rods; blended lightness with power.
Garrison (USA) – Scientific taper designs, minimalist aesthetics; highly sought by collectors.
Granger (USA) – Durable and accessible; known for smooth-casting Western-style rods.
Orvis (USA) – Introduced impregnation process (waterproof finish); consistent and reliable.
F.E. Thomas (USA) – Elegant Eastern tapers with understated, classic aesthetics.
Dickerson (USA) – Strong, fast-action designs ideal for larger waters.
Winston (USA) – Known for smooth progressive action and deep flex; vintage San Francisco rods are prized.
Paul H. Young (USA) – Detroit craftsman known for innovative, powerful tapers and minimalist builds.
Pezon et Michel (France) – Continental masters whose Parabolic rods (e.g., Ritz models) redefined European rod design.
Everett “Pinky” Gillum (USA) – Perfectionist builder famed for flawless craftsmanship and balanced, responsive tapers.
Thomas & Thomas (USA) – Modern traditionalists blending old-world artistry with precision performance.

…and many, many moore.

Who Crafted the Classic Reels many Collectors Admire Today?

Hardy (England) – Icons like the Perfect, St. George, and Uniqua defined traditional reel design.
Dingley (England) – Ex-Hardy craftsman; handmade reels with unmistakable sound and fine detailing.
J.W. Young (England) – Reliable, well-engineered reels made for working anglers and classic setups.
Vom Hofe (USA) – Early American masters; elegant nickel-silver reels and innovative drag systems.
Bogdan (USA) – Legendary salmon reels, prized for their flawless machining and buttery-smooth drags.
Pflueger (USA) – The accessible classic; the Medalist remains a timeless favorite.
Saracione (USA) – Contemporary precision maker honoring vintage aesthetics.
Bengt Engelbrekt (Sweden) – Scandinavian craftsman known for beautifully engineered, minimalist fly reels that balance modern function with old-world feel.
Bo Mohlin (Sweden) – Renowned for his hand-built, click-and-pawl reels that combine classic design, impeccable finish, and mechanical grace — now quite collectible.

How do I care for my Bamboo Rod?

General Care
Avoid moisture—always dry your rod before putting it away, and seal any hook nicks with a dab of varnish.

Assembly and Disassembly
Keep the rod straight when joining or separating sections: “Put together—close together. Take apart—far apart.” Never twist the ferrules. For three-piece rods, assemble tip to mid first, then attach the butt; reverse when taking apart. Always remove the reel first.

If a ferrule sticks, “cross over” with a friend—each grips both sections and pulls straight apart.

Fishing and Handling
Don’t free snags with the rod—pull the line by hand instead. Avoid high-sticking when landing fish; always keep the butt pointed away. Never lift fish from the water with the rod. Break surface tension before picking up line to prevent tip set, and stop reeling before a knot reaches the guides.

Flies and Lines
Use flies and lines within your rod’s design range—delicate tips aren’t made for heavy or weighted setups.

Ferrules
Keep ferrules clean and dry. Occasionally wipe with a dry cloth; if oxidized, use very fine (0000) steel wool lightly. A touch of dry Ivory soap on the male ferrule helps them seat smoothly.

Tips and Storage
Alternate rod tips to ensure even wear, and store the unused tip in the last sleeve of the bag as a reminder. When bagging, insert the butt ferrule-down, with tips up. Store the rod in its bag and tube in a cool, dry place—never in a hot car.

With care and common sense, your rod will serve you for a lifetime.

Based on Rick Robbins Advice

How do I care for my reel?

Cleaning:

  • Never polish or use abrasives (Brasso, WD-40, etc.).

  • Wipe gently with a soft damp cloth; dry immediately.

  • Clean inside with a Q-tip and a drop of isopropyl alcohol if old grease is hardened.

Lubrication:

  • Add a tiny drop of light oil (sewing-machine or reel oil) to the spindle and pawl pivots.

  • Apply a trace of light grease to the gear teeth — no excess.

Finish protection:

  • Preserve the leaded patina — don’t polish.

  • Lightly buff with Renaissance Wax or pure beeswax; this seals and protects without shine.

Storage:

  • Keep dry, cool, and dust-free.

  • Avoid damp leather cases; store in a soft cotton bag inside.

  • Turn the handle occasionally to keep parts moving.

After fishing:

  • Rinse lightly with fresh water, dry thoroughly, and re-oil if needed.