CLASSIC RODS

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14.  Leonard 61.  The 8 1/2', 2/2, 8wt from Ted Simroe's Mirimachi series of rods.  I used it with an Orvis 8 WF line and it was fabulous.  Also used a Bogdan 0 that balanced perfectly with it.  From my own collection and used only twice on the Cascapedia.  Red wraps, fixed fighting butt, reverse half wells grip perfectly sized for the rod and comfortable.  A casting machine in spite of its light weight in the hand.  Even put it into the hands of guides at the lodge who ordinarily disdain bamboo;  they thought it was amazing and were duly surprised.  Excellent condition in original bag and labeled tube.  Decided that I cannot in good conscious let this great but perhaps little known rod go for its earlier pricing.  Its perfect companion reel, the Hardy St. John, appears as item #108 in the reel section.  $1550.   

51.  Jim Downes.  7612, 7 1/2', 2/2, 5 wt.  6" flor quality cigar grip, cap and ring seat (die stamped with maker's mark) over tiger maple insert,  blonde  cane beautifully wrapped with avocado silks  smartly and delicately tipped in a dark auburn, cocoa colored agate stripping guide; blued  ferrules and reel seat hardware.  The rod enjoys a fabulous dry fly habit and may be the finest piece yet recieved from Jim for performance and  finish.  The rod is perfect in every way -- dead straight (of course), perfect ferrule fit,  flawless varnish and ever so beautiful wraps. Working with Walt Carpenter in his early days,  I believe Jim is among the most talented builders of our time.   $1350.

52.  Hardy Palakona.  6'8", 2/2, 4/5 wt. Near mint.   All cork grip and seat with the patented Hardy hood and ring.  Hardy die stamp in place to both the applied pocket and cap, grip approx. 6", black silks smartly tipped Kelly Green, milky agate stripper guide, machined ferrule plug to the female, perfect ferrule fit and original bag and tube compliments yours truly.  Hardy and most other British makers were not in the habit of supplying tubes except by special request -- so original tailored bag with hanging loop to its end (since you are expected to hang your rod in the rod room for adequate drying!)  The rod enjoys a brisk dry fly action with lots of gumption.  This is a very late model vintage piece made just before the shut down of their manufacture -- not one of the later reissued rods produced about 10-15 years ago at the heady price point of $2000+.  So a vintage Hardy in as new condition. From its ever so slight soiling of the grip, hardly worth mentioning, believe the rod to have been lawn cast only.  $775

57.  Jim Downes Quad.  8', 3/2, 5/6wt.  Previously sold rod back to me in a welcome trade is this stunning rod from Jim Downes.  6" cigar grip, nickel silver cap and ring over figured rather dark maple, Jim's die stamp in place on the lovely machined end cap, blonde cane, pale red agate stripper guide, forged winding check, and an absolutely beautiful finish a la Tom Maxwell -- transparent tan silks neatly tipped crimson.  Rod has a brisk full bodied medium dry fly action.  This rod is truly a work of art for appearance; a casting machine for performance.  Jim is quickly being considered one of the pre-eminent builders of our time having worked closely with both Walt Carpenter and George Maurer gleaning the best of their design and cosmetic offerings for his own work. His attention to detail above reproach.  Mint unused condition.  $1450.

58.  Payne 98.  7', 2/2, 2 3/4oz.,  "Sold By" rod.  5" soiled but smooth cigar grip, blued cap and ring (some absence of bluing) over Spanish cedar, red agate stripper guide, customary brown silks tipped gold, insert stepped up and routed to the cork sans later knurled cork check -- very pretty effect.  Medium straw colored cane, perfect ferrule fit, dead straight and still carries its fully legible hang tag in its original tube and original bag.  The rod is near perfect aside from only recently noticed tiny isolated spots of varnish surface activity on the tips that can no doubt be rubbed out. Aside from that the rod is in really super condition.    These marks completely alluded me when concluding a multi rod  purchase and only became apparent while making this entry.  Sent it off to Jim Downes for minor surface fix and it has come back to me in fine condition.  And all original with no additions to varnish or other foreign surface treatment.   Just a fabulous easy casting medium action dry fly 4 wt (might even take a 3 DT) rod and all structurally perfect; all original;  cosmetically very good.  $3500.  Sold 

60.  Another stunning example from the bench of Jim Downes.   8', 3/2,  rendition of a Payne 201.  Perhaps the best casting rod from the entire Payne lineup in that line weight is the 201.  Sensational medium fast dry fly 5 wt made up in my favorite Downes colors -- deep avocado green smartly tipped black.  Lighter cane is a spectacular back drop for the green silks;  the 6" flor grade cork grip, elegant and exotic wood (Jim calls it burled red maple) spacer and agate stripper guide complete the cosmetic package.  Just a glorious rod and a 5 wt casting machine.  New from Jim and for your consideration at $1450.  Sold  

68.  Orvis Battenkill.  7', 2/1, serial number 69029 (1973), 3 3/8oz. 5 wt.  Hex capped original gray tube, fully legible labeled as a two tip rod; original green bag.  Sadly, the second tip lost along the way.  6" cigar grip, down locking seat with independent  ring and unmarred varnished walnut filler. And for its period unusually dark cane.    Rod has a very likeable brisk dry fly action with enough backbone to handle  formidable prey in small water; tight venues.  With exception noted, an excellent condition rod in a desirable size at the price of plastic.  $425

70.  Orvis Deluxe.  6 1/2', 2/2, Serial number 35698 (1963), 5/6 wt.  4" Superfine grip giving way to an all cork seat with dual rings and the usual aluminum button to the flared seat terminus.  A great little small stream rod capable of throwing small to medium size dries, nymphs and can tolerate weighted wets as well.  A small rod with lots of backbone that I would describe as medium dry fly and somewhat parabolic in habit.  Dark cane, brown silks, perfect fitting ferrules with about 90% bluing  and original bag and tube with fully legible blue label.  Aside from very minor ridging of the cork; no reel seat impressions to the seat in fine condition.  This rod often sold as a 4/5 wt in the interest of marketing, really sings with a 6 wt line.  While the tendency for both dealers and enthusiasts to envision a 6 1/2 footer as a 4 or 5 wt is ubiquitous.  Respect it as a 6 wt. and it will be a casting epiphany.  Just a great rod if properly used.  For its ever so slight ridging of the cork grip, $575.  Again, available

73.  Scott SC 6114, so 6' 11", 4wt. 2 piece, 2 tip (book matched).  Serial number 1007 and from the deft hands of Bernard Ramanouskas.  This may be the most beautiful rod from any current big company maker in the country.  Dark cane showing golden nodes, perfect varnish, agate stripper guide, moderate cigar grip appointed with a handsome piece of composite cork before the winding check -- a really elegant artifice.  Ever so delicate blued cap and ring over what I believe to be a dark burled maple, truncated perfect fitting ferrules and the most delicate transparent  silks sporting what must be a single wind of auburn to the middle of each winding station.  All of this and a super casting dry fly 4 wt casting machine.  Only the slightest soiling to the grip, otherwise seems little used with not a single reel foot mar to the seat or any other evidence of use beyond a lawn. A spectacular rod made under contract by Bernard Ramanouskas of Eden Cane and Freestone note.  Current pricing from Scott and approved dealers is $3250.   Here, and available without the order wait, $2100.  Sold

75.  Another stunning rod from the bench of Jim Downes.  7 1/2', 3/2, brisk 5 wt. 76-15-10 denoting the length, 3 piece configuration and ferrule sizes.  Fabulous dry fly character in an uncompromising cosmetic package.  6" cigar grip, blued cap and ring seat with Jim's hallmark die stamp in place,  medium dark cane beautifully wrapped in "pond scum green" tipped black, agate stripper guide, blued perfectly fitting tight ferrules, 3x3 node pattern.  This is just an absolutely wonderful very dry fly, very brisk rod that favors comparison to Leonard Maxwell types for behaviour. Jim's attention to detail mimics that of Don Schroeder from structural quality to packaging-- bag length always just right; tube length absolutely correct.  No liberties taken with any detail.  From the moment you dislodge the rod you're encouraged for quality and workmanship.  New from Jim.  $1450.  Sold

77.  Orvis Salmon Rod.  9', 3/2, 7 oz. 3/2, 8 wt.  Unusual to find this rod in a transportable 3 piece configuration and in this remarkable, completely unused, new condition.   Purchased expressly for a client who sadly went in a different direction; now appearing here.  Has a shy 7" grip, all aluminum down locking seat, blued ferrules, elegant brown silks and a removable 5" fighting butt with filler cap still present.  All original tube with perfect blue label and original bag with kangaroo pocket for its fighting butt and warrantee card.  Serial number 32276 so made 1961/62.  Has a great full working dry fly feel and will welcome a trip to the Maritimes for sure.   May be the prettiest, most elegant Orvis rod from this era yet seen by this enthusiast.  Put this rod together with a 3 3/4" St George or a lovely St. John presented earlier on this list,  better yet a No. "O" Bogdan.  Totally new; totally elegant.  $575.  Reduced

79.  Eden Cane.  7 1/2', 2/2, 7612, 4 wt.  6 1/4" moderate reverse half wells grip, up ring over bird's eye maple,  maple inserts fore and aft of the flor grade grip,  elegantly (perfectly) varnished blond cane, red agate stripper guide, clear wraps delicately tipped auburn,  and of course from the able hands of Bernard Ramanouskas, and as expected, nodeless construction.  This may be the finest rod yet seen from Bernard with an absolutely crisp dry fly action,  amazing ferrule fit, dead straight and brand new unused in his hallmark cordovan interior partitioned case.  Absolutely stunning in appearance and amazing in the hand.  The best Eden Cane yet seen.  Last retail price for this rod was $3995.  Here, offered at  $1800.

80.  Bob Gorman 704.  7', 2/2. 4 wt. Spectacular rod from Bob Gorman of Green River Rods.  5" healthy cigar grip -- very comfortable --, lightly flamed patinated cane with prominent swelled butt, lovely deep avocado green silks smartly tipped black and up ring nickel silver seat over very exotic hardwood insert.  Appears to be a rather maple like wood insert with random streams of black variegated throughout.  Gorman's rods although appearing impregnated are actually coated with a very subtle low luster finish.  The rod has a superb dry fly action and is just a perfect dry fly rod in its size range and a virtual work of art for finish.  His rods are sadly undervalued and underappreciated , likely for his spare output of cane and unfortunate early demise.  Listed on another site, the identical rod; identical condition,  with a 1 1/2" short tip for $795. This one, perfect in original bag and tube.   $875.  Sold

82.  Tufts and Batson.  7 1/2', 3/2, 5 wt.  Absolutely stunning piece of work from Amelia Tufts and Gabe Batson.  Having apprenticed under the vigilance of Daryll Whitehead and later a stint with Bellinger, this extraordinary pair have raised the art of building bamboo to heady levels.  6" moderate cigar grip, blackwood insert under nickel silver cap and ring, correct dye stamp in place, medium straw colored cane with a 3 x 3 node pattern,  glorious black silks smartly tipped orange, turned ferrule plugs,  elegant nickel silver "wedding cake" configured winding check and red agate stripper guide.  Varnish is beyond perfect, ferrule fit is amazing and up to the Jordan-Mills almost irritating standards,  and the action is just amazing for its medium dry fly habit.  One sliding ring mark to the back of the most elegant insert, not even worth mentioning, otherwise as new.   The current pricing for their rods is in excess of $2400, maybe even more than  $2500 for the 3 piece format.  Great images on their website but glad to send pics.  Here, in absolutely perfect condition,  $1550.

84.  Incredibly rare offering from the Orvis Company.  a 7', 4 piece, two tip pack rod in remarkable condition.  Serial number 76301, 1971 and specifically listed in the Reynolds compendium,  green bag, gray tube with hex cap.  3 7/8oz. , reads 6 wt but at its weight can carry a 5 with ease. Dead straight, great ferrule fit; has a  nice full bodied medium dry fly habit.  Superfine cigar grip has a bit of soiling and almost not worth mentioning ridging, likely from time rather than use as the walnut insert is immaculate, absent any signs of reel mounting.  This rod just about never,  never comes to market and by far more allusive even than the model 7/4.  $925.  Sold

85.  Orvis Battenkill.  7 1/2', 2/2, 5/6 wt. Described  as a 6 by Orvis and although marked 3 7/8 oz,  seems marginally lighter in the hand than the later model with the same weight designation and same 12 ferrule size.  Serial number 38072 so 1964.  Smooth and uncompromised 5 3/4" cigar grip (very slightly soiled), medium dark cane, brown wraps, blued ferrules that are nice and tight, down locking screw seat over satin finished walnut with independent ring ;dead straight and structurally perfect.  Has a lovely crisp medium dry fly action and can do yeoman's work with small to medium size flies.  Just the quintessential all around rod and the one rod to own if you'll only own one bamboo rod.  Just a great no excuses rod.  Original gray bag and tube with fully legible blue label.   $675.

86.   Phillipson Peerless.  7', 2/2, 4/5 wt.  Impregnated rod in mint condition and very special indeed.  This all original  rod is wrapped black with white (or pale gold) tipping usually reserved for the Premium Grade model.  Inscription to the rod reads "Made for Dick Sherman by P. W. (Bill) Phillipson 1975.  This was applied by Bill Phillipson himself.  Sherman was hired by Bill to oversee factory protocol as well as sales efforts for the company.   He and Bill became good friends.  Bill produced this rod expressly for Richard.  I will include an original copy of a History of the Phillipson Rod and Tackle Company written by Bill's son, Donald.  Only 50 of these spiral bound books were distributed, this being number 19/50 and signed by Donald.  Information about Richard Sherman can be found on page 19 of the book.  This rod is in mint  condition with some absolutely insignificant soiling of the grip from handling the rod indoors by enthusiasts and previous owners.  It has never seen water.  Rod enjoys a brisk dry fly demeanor and, of course, has its original squeaky clean bag and original, although unorthodox tube with the Phillipson label intact.  To the tube is scribbled in presumably Sherman's hand, the initials RMS.  A serious collector piece; a super dry fly rod that should be fished and enjoyed.  $925.  Sold

87.  Don Schroeder.  7' 3", 2/2, 4 wt Quad.  This is one of Don's light colored rods.  Has all the hallmarks of the marque  --  6" cigar grip (unsoiled), tiger maple insert under blued cap and ring, light tan translucent silks tipped  cinnamon, machined ferrule plug, black bakelite winding check and Don's proper die stamp in place to the end cap.  Serial number 59219 and although marked for a 4 wt line, I'd likely use a 5 on it as I do with my own 4 wt. Schroeder.  Don's attention to detail and consistency throughout his range of rods is above reproach, from the way the rod fits into its bag, into the tube with just enough room, his meticulous varnish, perfect morticed reel seat (that fits every reel I've ever had on it) with tastefully machined and coin edged cap and ring; even his writing on the cane is elegant.  Just a great dry fly rod in its length with  perfect finish and detail work.  I believe Don's rods to be sleepers; very much strangely undervalued.  Mint unused condition.  $1550.  

88.  Jim Downes.  7', 2/2, 7011, 4wt.  Another great example of of work from Jim Downes.  5 1/2" flor grade cigar grip, blued cap and ring over stabilized exotic wood insert, elegant as can be lime silks with black tipping -- very tasteful -- red agate stripper guide and light straw colored bamboo blanks.  Itsperfect varnish finish so compliments the wrap color that it presents as an elegant piece of workmanship.  This is a medium/fast dry fly rod quite able with a great range of fly sizes.  Absolutely top notch work with a superb casting dry fly habit.  New from Jim without the wait at $1350.  

89.  JD Wagner Signature series Pent.  7' 3", 2/2, 4/5 wt.  Labeled "Penta Number One" model 273 FSP 4-5 wt. and of course Jeff's signature properly in place.  Rod sports a minimally reverse wells grip, nickel silver up locking screw seat over highly figured cherry (?) insert, sterling silver winding check, exclusive rope braid sterling silver hook keeper,  glorious darkly flamed cane, transparent brown silks ever so delicately tipped black and red agate stripper guide.  While I'm not certain what Jeff's price on a Pent is, his Signature rods retail for 2295.  This rod has a decidedly dry fly parabolic action.  Jeff is quite a fan of the Young tapers and this is classically in the category.  Put up in his Signature bag and black powder coat tube with full gold label in tact.   Only  very slight soiling of the grip otherwise in perfect condition -- excellent plus, plus, plus.  $1450. 

90.  Homer Jennings.  7 1/2', 2/2, 5 wt. Serial number 365 so built 1993.  One of the most beautiful yet undervalued rods on today's market among contemporary makers.  Homer's attention to detail is absolutely above reproach.  The action of his rods would be pleasing to anyone.   As an early dealer for Homer I would implore him to raise his prices to the level the workmanship deserved.  He would reluctantly raise prices incrementally and as a result had a backlog of orders that became almost impossible to fill.  Needless to say his modesty has lead to an underserved rather moderately priced rod relative to other less able, less renowned builders.  Quite sad, really.  This rod is a classic example of his work.  Light straw cane, 5 1/2" cigar grip (minor soiling), nickel silver jewel like up locking seat over what appears to be highly figured cherry or some other beautiful exotic wood, a hex configured forged winding check, translucent tan silks, bamboo hex shaped ferrule plug and an absolutely perfect varnish finish.  The rod has a distinct but sweet brisk dry fly habit.  Just a stunning rod with a great casting quality.  I've never had a rod from Homer that was anything but a great casting rod.  His prices should reflect his time at the bench, quality of his work and great sense of tapers. Put up in an early Jennings/Moran tube and reel seat (I am advised by a reliable enthusiast) made by Shirl Maisey and later sold by his brother and often used by Tom Moran as well.   Excellent condition as well as historically interesting.    $1550.

91.  Another beautiful rod from Homer Jennings.  This, a 7', 2/2, 4wt.  Serial number 565, so 2004 build.  6" cigar grip, bright nickel silver cap and ring over his hallmark olive wood spacer, forged hex winding check, prominently swelled butt, blonde cane, transparent tan silks delicately tipped deep brown,  perfect fitting truncated ferrules and bamboo ferrule plug still in place.  Finish is impeccable.  The rod is in its original bag and his later brown stippled tube with heavy brass  collar and cap.  The rod has a fabulous dry fly Catskill style action and just a super pleasure to cast.  Homer's rods are arguably among the top tier of American rod makers but are inconceivably moderately priced. For minimal cork soiling, seems to have been lawn cast only.  $1550.

92.  Chris Carlin. (Far North Rodsmiths). Lm 8056h. 2/2, 4 3/8 oz. 5/6 wt.  One of Chris' ever so elegant hollow built quadrates.  6 1/4" half wells grip, down locking  aluminum seat (appears to be Struble) over figured koa insert to a blued cap  -- very handsome.  Lightly, evenly flamed cane that just glistens under a perfect varnish finish; red agate stripper guide, brown silks tipped yellow a la Payne, and properly forged and mounted ferrules.  The rod enjoys a moderate parabolic action reminiscent of the Young Para 15 Keller version, so somewhat lighter than the 15 but with lots of reserve power as Marty Keane would have declared.  In Chris' own words, "I  often like to have a rod with a little extra power and quickness.  The LM tapers maintain the smooth progressive feel and softer tip of the LL variation while being a little faster and more powerful especially in the lower 1/2."  In the hollow built version, "no tip bounce and smooth, powerful turnover characterize this rod series." Not under-gunned but still sensitive and delicate when necessary.  Mint condition.  With Chris at $1895.  Here without the wait,  $975.    

93.  Another fabulous rod from the bench of Chris Carlin.  This, his model SH8353h.  8' 3", 3/2, 4 3/8 oz. 5wt.,  hollow built hex.  Serial number 1802.  6 1/4" full wells grip, up ring over stabilized rather dark curly maple, straw colored cane, red agate stripper guide, brown silks tipped yellow, truncated ferrules and all hardware perfectly and evenly blued.  I would characterize this rod as having a progressive (semi-parabolic) action that will serve the enthusiast under about every circumstance.  Easy action with lots of gumption yet able to delicately present the smallest flies.  The one rod to own if you'll own only one rod.  Just fills a multiple of uses for its all around behaviour.  Just a super casting rod that will virtually transform the average caster into a Lefty Kreh.  Chris retails his 3 piece hex for 1795.  With me,  $1050.  Sold

94.  Winston.  7'9", 2/1, 4/5 wt. hollow built, 3 1/8 oz. Quad.  This rod was expressly built July 23rd 1997 by Glenn Brackett for fly fishing personality, Greg Lilly, son of Bud Lilly and formidable in fly fishing circles in his own right, re: Healing Waters.  Apparently, every rod built by Winston for anyone in the Lilly family was constructed as a single tip rod.  6" moderate  reverse half wells grip, down locking nickel silver jewel like seat over a rather exotic insert of Lilly's choice with a complimenting varnished hardwood winding check , translucent tan silks ever so delicately tagged deep auburn at the ferrule stations, red agate stripper guide,  and just a perfect varnish application that glistens from flat to flat.  Elegant.  Rod has a decidedly light dry fly flavor that is delightful as a 4 wt that will more fully load with a 5.  I like it with a DT4.  Just a delightful rod in the hand and as handsome a rod made today with a very formidable pedigree. I might add that Winston no longer takes orders for quadrates.  Mint condition.  $1350.  Sold 

95.  Winston.  7 1/2', 2/2, 2 7/8 oz., 4wt.  Serial number 2685 and of course, hollow built.  6" full wells grip, nickel silver cap and ring over maple (or beechwood),  light straw colored cane, tan silks double wrapped at the guide feet with burgundy tagging to the ferrule stations and at the hook keeper  signature wrap and needless to say a perfect varnish finish, the entire production undoubtedly executed under Brackett's supervision.  Rod has a light but brisk dry fly action, Catskill style.  Just a beautiful light dry fly rod for the most delicate, accurate presentations.  Mint unused and put up in a beautiful Winston issued leather tube .  $1750.  Sold

96.  Thomas and Thomas Paradigm.  7 1/2', 2/2, 5 wt.  Serial number 2742 sports the early, excuse the language, pecker grip (somewhat soiled but smooth and uncompromised).  Most enthusiasts will know exactly what I am describing.  Often called the Ellis grip.  And pics will tell the story.  Just a fabulous medium action dry fly rod; best of all it has Tom Maxwell's handwriting to it.  Lovely straw colored impregnated cane, blued cap and ring over an unmarred walnut insert,  pale yellow silks making the look monochromatic with chocolate wraps at the ferrule stations.  Elegant dry fly rod from the hands of Tom Maxwell.  Guessing early 70's vintage.  Dead straight,  ferrule fit is perfect and put up in the proper bag with stiffener and original highest grade tube.  $1750.  Sold

97.  Don Schroeder.  8', 2/2, 6/7 wt. Graded by Don as a 6 wt.  Serial number 21999.  Beautiful dark rod from Don with all of his hallmark attention- to-detail elements.  6 1/4" reverse half wells grip , uplocking screw seat over what I believe to be a morticed  cherry wood insert (a bit unusual for Don), die stamp in place on the turnbuckle, nicely machined coin edged winding check, brown silks smartly tipped black and perfect fitting blued ferrules.  The rod has a strong, distinctly dry fly flavor and aside from some soiling of the grip, in excellent condition.  Dead straight, great ferrule fit, perfect varnish.  Just another super rod from the master of cosmetic and structural consistency, Don Schroeder.  $1050.

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98.  Extraordinary Arrival.  7 1/2', 2/2,  3 5/8 oz. all original HS (Pinky) Gillum Rod in a very rare 5 weight configuration.  All original, late manufacture (likely 1960-62) in original bag and tube and without cosmetic or structural issues.  May be one of the rarest rods to reach the market in many years.  Just a super dry fly rod in the Catskill tradition without the tippiness often characterized by the genre. Photos for serious inquiries.  Price on Request.  

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99.    Payne 98.  7', 2/2, 3 oz.,  4 wt. Late model.  Elegantly restored by John Bradford perhaps one of the best restorationists in the US until his passing some years ago.  Original bag and tube.  5" cigar grip, blued cap and ring over Spanish Cedar filler, brown silks tipped yellow, Payne die stamp in place sans retailer's logo on the cap.  Although a fabulous refinish, John chose a brown that is somewhat lighter in color than the original chocolate, otherwise about perfect restored condition.  A significant note here is that there is a guarantee of all original sections  as John categorically would refuse to make replacement sections for any rod that he had the good fortune to restore.  This is rather common knowledge among   enthusiasts so feel confident that the rod is completely original aside from the deft hand work of John Bradford.  Another interesting note, and a very rare occurrence, is that there is on the bag a William Rosgen ink stamp indicating that it was brokered or sold by that CT institution notable for retailing Carlson rods and other well known individual maker's work very likely in the 50's and early 60's.  This Purveyor has never  seen this imprimatur to a Payne rod.  Rod is dead straight, has a great ferrule fit and begs the new owner to use it on small streams; small to medium flies.  Has the back bone to seduce most trout to several pounds as well.  $2850. 

100.  Post fire Leonard 38.  7', 2/2, 3 1/8 oz., 4 wt.  Serial number 3229 so Ted Simroe, Midland Park, NJ era rod.   5 1/2" cigar grip, down locking screw seat over butternut with nickel silver cap clearly marked with the Leonard die stamp for the period.  Tan silks , tipped auburn, light straw colored cane, ferrule plug in place and original bag and tube with the completely detailed hallmark red label.  Just a beautiful light dry fly 4 weight rod in the Catskill tradition.  Elegant casting habit, perfect finish; perfect structural condition and ready to be fished for many years to come.  Aside from very minor almost insignificant in- use soiling of the cork excellent condition.  $1550.

101.  Pre-fire Leonard 50DF. 8', 3/2, 5 wt.  All cork cigar grip and reel seat, Beautiful nickel silver cap and ring with proper pre-fire die stamp to the end cap, tan/yellow silks, bright absolutely perfect fitting ferrules -- actually quite an amazing ferrule fit for the rod's age.  Hang tag still with the rod and correctly reads "4 1/8 oz., Cork Handle" meaning all cork grip and seat.  Varnish is incredibly perfect and all put up in its original bag and narrow pre-fire tube.  Rod has the classic very medium dry fly action and is ready to take on just the widest range of bait for up to medium size water.  Quite a spectacular rod and believe somewhat later production for its American guides.  One of my loyal customers after seeing pics of the rod noticed that, although perfect and a match  one to the other, the tip tops appear later.  The quintessential 50DF with all the expected attributes of the marque.    This may be one of the finest examples of the model I've had in some years.  No battery of rods should be without one.  $1450.  Sold

102.  Orvis Flea presented as a Madison so 6 1/2', 2/1, 2 3/4oz. 4 wt. Serial number 72990. Healthy superfine grip (slight soiling), down locking seat over varnished walnut, obligatory brown silks, blued perfect fitting blued ferrules, dead straight all with a delightful medium dry fly habit.  One of the best tapers from Orvis and clearly the best rod with a 4 wt designation from the company.  Excellent condition with original bag and fully legible green/silver label to its original tube.  For its superb condition, $575.  Sold

103.  Orvis Battenkill.  7 1/2', 2/2, 5/6 wt in the ubiquitous 3 7/8oz format.  Serial number 39830.  6" all smooth but soiled cigar grip, down locking seat over satin walnut with a few unexplainable mars to the wood filler, rather dark cane,  absence of bluing to the excellent fitting ferrules and a medium yet full bodied dry fly action typical of the model.  Although all whole and in generally good condition a few wraps could use a bit of varnish, yet a long way from needing a rewrap.  Straight as an arrow, structurally perfect; cosmetically good. Original bag and tube absent most of its label. Nicely priced at $575.

104.  Ted Simroe 2805.  8', 2/2, 5 wt.  Serial number 719 and originally made up for yours truly in my proprietary tan, monochromatic silk colors, all cork grip and seat with delicate cap and ring.  Grip has slight soiling showing very little use.  As all of Ted's rods it is dead straight has a marvelous varnish finish and attention to detail in a very straightforward rod is just superb.  3 x 3 node pattern as a Leonard and has a great Catskill like dry fly habit without being tippy.  For Ted's history, production standards and prolific and uncompromised workmanship highly undervalued.  His are often my go to rods in the 7 1/2 and 8 foot 5 wt range.  They are truly a pleasure to cast and will still be your friend at the end of the day.  Elegant and well behaved in every way.  Perhaps the one rod to own......you know the rest!   Save its slightly soiled grip, near perfect condition in its original bag and Leonard like tube.  $1450. 

105.  Orvis Limestone Special.  8 1/2', 2/2, 4 1/2 oz. 6 wt.  Battenkill grade rod. Serial number 69052.  6 1/2" cigar grip, down locking seat over varnished walnut, relatively dark shafts, chocolate brown silks, blued ferrules (100%), and original bag and hex capped tube with complete label.  This is surely one of Orvis's best designed rods in this length/line weight.  Can throw a fly as far as you can possibly need and is the perfect Delaware River rod.   I used this rod several years ago at the junction of the main stem and West Branch and landed several big browns,  with a 50-60 foot take on relatively small flies with no issue.  Just a great casting rod and this one in very good/excellent condition.  Medium dry fly action with lots of backbone and able with just any fly size that you can summon.  $725.  Sold  

106.  Thomas and Thomas Paradigm.  8', 2/2, 5 wt.  Serial number 3468.  6" reverse half wells grip, up locking aluminum seat over walnut with proper die stamp in place on the turnbuckle, prominent swelled butt, straw colored impregnated cane, transparent tan silks tipped cinnamon, blued ferrules and original bag and tube with bag stiffener.  Medium dry fly habit and just an astounding casting instrument for almost any venue.  Excellent condition.  $1650.  On Hold

                                                                     A Fine Selection of AJ Thramer Rods

107.  From his Classic Taper Series, a Payne 98.  7', 2/2, 4 wt.  For behaviour and appearance just as a late model Payne 98.  5 1/2" cigar grip, blued cap and ring over cedar insert, evenly toned straw colored cane, brown silks traditionally tipped yellow and an absolutely perfect varnish finish.  A brisk dry fly 4 wt that replicates the 98 from the last period.  As new.  $950.

108.  Garrison type 209E. Again a CTS rod. 7' 9", 2/2, 5/6 wt.  Made up precisely as a Garrison -- 6" cigar grip, 2/3 walnut insert, cap and properly knurled and swaged ring, clear silks over light cane; chocolate brown at the ferrule stations and winding check.  Minor soiling of the grip, otherwise a super bright progressive dry fly rod and absolutely as a Garrison 209E.  AJ has a unique talent for replicating traditional/classic tapers like no other practitioner.  Excellent condition.  $850.

109.  Leonard 39.  7 1/2', 2/2, 4/5 wt.  Made up as a Leonard from the late 70's with red silks, 6" cigar grip, butternut insert, delicate bright cap and ring, pale cane, proper black guides and, of course, Thramer's enviable flawless varnish finish.  Rod enjoys a lovely but easy dry fly Catskill habit.  Can deliver the most delicate of presentations while having the ability to handle substantial prey.  Slight soiling of the grip and a few mars to the seat insert otherwise excellent condition  and put up in what appears to be a Leonard tube.    $825.

110. Payne 197.  7 1/2', 3/2, Hollowbuilt , 4/5 wt.  Again from his Classic Taper Series of rods and again made up as a Payne.  5 1/2" cigar grip, blued cap and ring, brown silks tipped yellow, red agate stripper guide, rather dark  yet evenly toned cane,blued perfect fitting ferrules.  For its hollow build, a bit brighter than the original 197 and to my mind more appropriately distinguished as a 198. Has a bright, progressive dry fly flavor and could be a lovely all around rod with enough delicacy to present the smallest flies; enough backbone to throw streamers and wets with fervor.  Slight soiling of the grip otherwise excellent.  I believe AJ's hollow built rods are quite amazing.  $1050. 

In the pantheon of modern builders AJ has perhaps been one of the most prolific, unquestionably  talented yet overlooked, undervalued personalities.  His production habits in spite of his exhaustive efforts always remained perfect for structural competence, cosmetics and most of all for his sense of tapers whether with his Classic Series or his proprietary tapers and most particularly with his hollow built work. 

111.  Dickerson 861711.  A fine example of the model.  Structurally and cosmetically about perfect.  some soiling on its very smooth and uncompromised grip, original bag and tube and made 1947 and so inscribed.  $3200.  Sold

112.  Dickerson 761510 RB (Ray Bergman). One of only 73 ever made according to the Dickerson ledger and unknown number still in whole condition.  7 1/2', 3/2, 5 wt casting machine.  Every Dickerson hallmark in place; all in excellent original condition.  Pics upon request or alternatively can be seen on one of my competitor's websites.  You can hazard a guess -- perhaps the foremost  Dickerson/Young purveyor of our time!  This rod is completely uncompromised and in truly excellent condition.  $5200.

113.  John Gallas Croton model.  7', 2/2, 3.2 oz., 4 wt.  5 3/4" cigar grip, choice highly figured walnut insert,  coin edged blued cap and ring (some absence of bluing to both) machined by John, elegant "pond scum" green silks delicately tipped black, pale red agate stripper guide, and lovely perfectly varnished and uncompromised  lightly flamed  cane.  The rod has a very pleasing, brisk dry fly habit and is just one of the finest examples of John's work currently available.  John is a very meticulous and deliberate maker who selectively  builds a  few rods each year so the wait for one,  can be interminable.  This one, serial numbered 1006, is particularly nice and much desired.  Put up in a fully labeled, and identical  to, a  post fire Leonard tube.  Elegant.  $1475.

114.  Thomas and Thomas Caenis.  In the rare 7 1/2', 3 Wt format.  5 1/4" slightly soiled cigar grip , 2 piece, 2 tip, nickel silver cap (die stamp present)  and ring over highly figured walnut, deep straw colored varnished cane, prominent swelled butt, transparent tan silks ever so delicately tipped auburn,  and all hardware blued.  A tough combination really i.e. making a 7 1/2' rod that can carry a 3 weight line with aplomb.  This crisp dry fly light line rod is quite able in that regard.  Might even tolerate a WF4 if required.  Just a beautiful work of art from the company as you would expect with performance genious design.  Serial number 4105.  The exact rod seen on Gary Seimer's site at $2700.  Original bag with stiffener and fully labeled tube complete the package.   $2100.