252. Jeff Wagner Model 276-1 5Wt. So 7 1/2', 2/2, 5 Wt hex. 6" reverse half wells grip, up locking nickel silver jewel like hardware over figured morticed koa wood, dark chocolate silks, hallmark sterling silver hook keeper and winding check (blued), red agate stripper guide, blued tight fitting ferrules and dark, evenly flamed cane with a stunning varnish finish. Elegant, as all of Jeff's rods are. The rod exhibits a rather strong semi parabolic action and could be the only rod you'll ever need if you only could have one -- an unlikely story!! Throws a long line but is competent in close as well. Minor soiling of the cork otherwise, excellent condition. $1500.
260. Orvis Battenkill. The most desirable of the 8' rods -- the 4 1/8 oz. 2/2, model. Rarely coming to market, this light weight 8 footer sports a 6 1/2" cigar grip, down locking seat with what I know to be walnut but for its color appears to be rosewood -- very handsome indeed. Serial number 68629. Handsome dark cane, blued ferrules and the lighter brown silks. Has the first owner's name neatly and inconspicuously factory applied to the cane. Has a medium dry fly flavor -- not as loggy as the heavier 8 footers and much more dry fly. Although its label reads 6 wt., most enthusiasts enjoy it as a 5 wt rod. Excellent plus, plus condition. $725. Sold
263. HS (Pinky) Gillum. 8', 3/2, 4 5/8 oz., 5 Wt. Serial number 1-793. So a late desirable resorcinol glued up rod. Die stamp in place on the up locking turnbuckle, cedar insert, bronze silks, tagged black/white at the ferrule stations and at the hook keeper, blued amazing fitting ferrules, 6 1/2" reverse half wells grip and original bag and Champion tube. The original (first) owner of the rod applied a bit of varnish to some of the silks rendering some over varnish to a few of the guide stations and the grip was smoothed out by Steve Blake at my request. Steve deftly applied a new hook keeper in the absence of the original as well. Otherwise the rod seems altogether original and in generally excellent condition. With exceptions noted, may be the finest pre-owned Gillum I have had in many years. Sold
273. Per Brandin Hollow Built Hex. 8'3", 2/1, 3 1/8 oz. 4 wt. model 834-2 DF. dated 2/96. 5 3/4" full wells grip with his hallmark flare to the fore end, ever so delicate coin edged nickel silver cap and ring over morticed light hardwood (yew?), rather light cane, translucent tan silks with a triple set of signature wraps about 12" above the cork done with same color as the guide wraps with a delicate single turn of black at each set. Truncated ferrules with a perfect fit and needless to say a remarkable light line rod for appearance, detail and behaviour. The rod was previously owned by Walt Carpenter and bears his initials applied by him to the cap. About mint condition modestly priced at $3200. Sold
296. Steve Jenkins GA79-27. 7'9", 2/2, 5 wt. 6" lightly soiled cigar (Garrison style) grip, morticed cherry insert, bright nickel silver cap and ring, bright perfect fitting ferrules, 3 x 3 node pattern, blonde cane, transparent light tan silks, structurally perfect, cosmetically clean and perfect. As an adherent of the Garrison tradition the rod has a progressive, pleasing dry fly action for 5 wt lines. I like it with a 5 DT. One of the most perfect rods ever to enter the rod making history of American rod making. For quality, history and action should be considered one of "best rods" from individual builders in the US. Fabulous performing rod; extraordinary for detail. It's hard to imagine a rod of this quality, this size, this line weight, selling for less than my price of $1550. Just the perfect all around rod from a a pair of rod making builders with 63 years of rod building history between father and son. Sold. For those who missed this offering see item 363.
311. A Homer Jennings virtual work of art. 7' 9", 2/2, 4 1/4 oz. 5 Wt. Serial number 685 so made in 2009. This brisk dry fly rod is a bit unusual and likely a "bespoke" piece as it has silk colors that are a beautiful departure from his standard clear/brown wraps. The rod presents with translucent avocado green silks tipped very dark burgundy. I've only seen one other of his rods with this color pattern and had it in my own collection for some years. Absolutely stunning and a variation that, I believe, he should have offered more generously. The rod has his hallmark morticed olive wood insert under nickel silver cap and ring, agate stripper guide, tapered full bodied cigar grip, prominent swelled butt, flawless varnish over light straw colored cane setting off the silk tones oh, so sweetly. At 4 1/4 oz. this rod is a bit faster than his earlier 4 oz. rendition of the 7' 9" rod; a classically Catskill style for performance. Just a special rod from an established maker who, for some years, partnered with Tom Moran. On his own for many years since, greatly undervalued. Insignificant handle soiling otherwise in about perfect condition put up in the later brown stippled tube and original bag of course. $1750. Sold
314. Post-fire Leonard 39H. 7 1/2', 3 7/8 oz. dry fly 5 wt. ( in spite of its tube designation as a 6). 5 1/2" cigar grip, down locking seat over butternut, nickel silver cap with proper post fire die stamp, red wraps, black guides, bright perfect fitting ferrules and a distinct Catskill style dry fly action. Midland Park label to the tube and likely made during Ted Simroe's tenure at the company. Serial number 2790 on all sections including the very legible tube label. This is the classic dry fly rod that has been emulated by a body of practitioners throughout the country. A more precise responding dry fly rod I've yet to see. Excellent plus condition. Put up in the as new yellow bag with stiffener and original red labeled tube. This is just the absolute perfect dry fly rod in its size range -- much emulated but never copied. Can be seen on another site at $1960. This one in about perfect condition. $1550. On Hold
318. Thomas and Thomas Hendrickson. 7 1/2', 2/2, 5 Wt. from the Individualist series. Serial number 5567. 6" reverse half wells grip, up locking jewel-like nickel silver seat over highly figured walnut, enjoys the T and T die stamp to the independent ring, prominent swelled but so characteristic of the marque, tiger flamed cane, 3 x 3 node pattern, clear silks smartly delicately tipped cinnamon, blued perfect fitting ferrules and wrapped chocolate brown at the ferrule stations. This is a full bodied, progressive medium action rod ready to do business as a dry fly rod, while quite able as a streamer rod -- can handle weighted or bead head flies as well and can subdue substantial game in a 5 wt format. The attention to detail and structural integrity of the Thomas and Thomas brand is above reproach. Currently selling new for $4995 with a substantial wait. Here with a very slightly soiled grip, almost not worth mentioning, In near mint condition put up in its original bag with stiffener and fully labeled stippled black tube with "top hat" machined cap, modestly priced at $2350. Sold
320. One of the best designed, best casting rods ever produced by Orvis -- The 8 1/2', 2/2, 4 1/2 oz. Serial number 81668 Limestone Special. Designed for a 6 and casts a 6 DT (as I have used it) a country mile. Semi parabolic action that can tolerate any terminal arrangement that you need. I've used this on the Delaware with amazing and flawless results. Just a great float trip rod and truly one of the all time best rods I've owned. For its length might be off putting to some; its actual weight, performance and properly weighted reel make it feel much lighter in the hand than most 8 1/2 footers. 6 1/2" cigar grip, blued perfect fitting ferrules, patented down locking Orvis seat with independent ring, lovely walnut filler, lighter cane and tan silks make for a handsome rod as well. Very minimal soiling of the grip, otherwise excellent plus, plus condition with original bag and fully legible near perfect label to its hex capped tube. $675. Sold
321. Don Schroeder 7', 2/2, 4 Wt. One of Don's elegant dark toned rods. Sports a 6" cigar grip, blued coin edged cap and ring with Don's die stamp to the end cap entirely machined by Don, highly figured walnut filler, transparent brown silks tipped burnt umber, blued perfect fitting ferrules, dead straight and bright snake guides. Although marked as a 3 by Don, it is most definitely a crisp dry fly 4 Wt. rod. Serial number for those who are keen, 20398. This is a spectacular rod for cosmetic work, attention to detail, as is the habit of the Schroeder manufacture, and a spectacular casting dry fly rod for small to medium dry flies and is a particular dry fly rod. But I'm being redundant. A fabulous rod. Only very minimal soiling of the grip otherwise, has seen very little use. For Don's history, attention to detail, perfect execution, should be valued in excess of $2000 IMHO. Here, near perfect, $1650. Sold
325. Mario Wojnicki Pent. 8'1", 2/2, 5 wt. Model 245V5. numbered 6210. 3 3/4 oz. (hollow built?). Mario describes it as a medium action do everything 5 wt. A current model and apparently much in demand. From the outside in, a beautifully machined tube somewhat similar to those of his good friend Per Brandin, smartly tailored bag with his name neatly sewn to the overlapping hem that carries the butt section and model number acutely die stamped in the tube cap as well as "M. Wojnicki" to the tube collar. Modified wells grip, blued dual ring seat over handsome figured hardwood, black end cap and black seat to grip check -- all elegant. Truly amazing varnish over sparely flamed cane, clear tan wraps and bright guides. Enjoys a rather strong, progressive 5 DT action and is just the perfect rod if you'll only own one rod. Mario's description is that it "covers most trout fishing situations". See his website. Mint condition. $2800. Sold
326. Perhaps one of the finest FE Thomas rods that this purveyor of classic rods has seen in 35 years. A Browntone Special in remarkable condition. 8', 2/2, 4 3/8 oz. 5 Wt. Most enthusiasts agree that the 2 piece rods from the Thomas company from this period outdistance their 3 piece rods for structural integrity but most of all for performance. This fine example has a brisk distinct dry fly action but is not the proverbial "telephone pole", so has lots of life to it. Just a fabulous casting rod. 5 1/4" soiled but totally smooth cigar grip, down locking seat over walnut (?), blued nickel silver end cap with the proper FE Thomas "Special" Bangor ME die stamp with some loss of bluing, medium dark cane, hallmark 3, 6, 3,1 chocolate signature wraps, integral winding check, agate stripper guide, chocolate silks throughout, perfect fitting blued ferrules, die stamped "8" to the end cap suggesting pre -1937 manufacture. The rod is absolutely dead straight with perfect structural integrity. From an era when workmanship took no back seat, the rod is remarkably modern in feel and handling. Put up in the highest grade FET tube and still carries its original hang tag on its flap over top green bag that reads 3 3/4 oz. but my very accurate scale reads 4 3/8 oz. making it a distinctly dry fly rod. So a true classic in remarkable condition and a super performer $2100. Sold
336. Gary Howells. 8 1/2', 2/2, 4 3/8 oz. 6 Wt. Hollow built. Serial number 4525. Originally made for Bud Frasca Gary's primary dealer. 6" reverse half wells grip, up locking seat over zebra wood (although appears highly figured walnut), medium straw colored toned cane, brown double wrapped silks tipped yellow, hallmark wrapped ferrule stations, and medium toned straw colored cane -- beautiful. Fabulous varnish finish and all structurally perfect. Some soiling of the cork but smooth and without compromise. Medium fast dry fly progressive "do every thing" action . Can admirably serve as a dry fly rod and can tolerate weighted flies if necessary. The perfect rod on all counts and for its hollow build, pretty light in the hand once an appropriate reel is mounted. Just a beautiful example of Gary's work. $2100. Sold
344. Payne 98. 7', 2/2, 2 7/8 oz. brisk 4 wt. Late model rod made before the factory closed under the auspices of Walt Carpenter. Has his hallmark 3 digit serial number stamped in the but cap. Most knowledgeable enthusiasts will recognize the mark while others will simply understand it as a late model Payne 98. 5 1/2" cigar grip, blued cap and ring with the correct Payne die stamp, brown silks tipped gold, red agate stripper guide that Walt reverted to during the 70's and until the company shut its doors after the last known catologue was produced in 1975. The grip has only slight soiling otherwise the rod is in near mint condition with proper bag and labeled tube. Considering the numbers that I've seen in my research a very reasonable $3800. Includes a page copy from the last Payne catologue (1975). Failing a sale, it will go into my own battery of rods. Sold
355. Bill Blackburn. 6 1/2', hollow built 3 wt. Number 1322. 5" cigar grip, blued cap and ring over what seems to be amboina or similar colored insert. You can likely find out precisely at his website. Bill's work has become one of the most desirable of rods of this era. His work is above reproach -- perfect bamboo construction, perfect varnish, perfect ferrule fit, perfect translucent low profile silks and perfect light golden cane punctuated by 2 x 2 node design. This medium dry fly rod has some very minor soiling of the grip. Don't think it was used more than half a dozen times. Dead straight and ready for small water; small to medium fish. Just a gorgeous rod and everything you've come to expect from this master practitioner. Better than excellent condition. $1550. Sold
356. San Francisco Winston. This 7 1/2', 2/2, 3 oz. hollow built brisk dry fly 4 wt. was made during Glenn Brackett's tenure at the company. Quite often made as a single tip rod during that period as was the current example, it was sent back to the company for a second matching tip -- also a Brackett effort. The later tip with the same serial number in the same hand (although the script is marginally lighter, likely done with a thinner ink marker, is a good match. The silks on the original tip are a distinct tan while the silks on the later tip have an insignificant yellow influence. However, all is a match and the previous owner testifies that it was done by Glenn. The rod enjoys a 5 1/2' half wells grip, cap and ring morticed cork seat with the SF hallmark black tenite end cap and black reverse funnel winding check. Coming to me with a non original single tip bag, I purchased an original but contemporary bag from Winston to complete the package. A medium crisp dry fly flavor characterizes the rod's action. A rather nice 4 wt without the whispyness of some 7 1/2' 4 wt. rods. Grip and seat have some soiling but are entirely smooth to the touch; the reel seat without reel foot impressions. A nice rod by any standard with exceptions noted. And yes, original tube with yellow SF label. Selling as a single tip Winston at $1250 and less than the price of an original single tip Winston. A virtual steal.
Another fine group of spectacular Jim Downes rods, all previously listed Downes rods having been sold.
357. Jim's ubiquitous 7011. 7', 2/2, 4 Wt. 5" have wells grip (proprietary to yours truly), walnut insert under blued and dye stamped cap and ring seat, translucent avocado silks ever so delicately tipped black, medium dark cane, 3 x3 node pattern, red agate stripper guide and a hallmark of his work, book matched tips. Performs as a medium/brisk dry fly rod with every cosmetic and structural attribute that we've come to expect from JIm. Truly a joy to behold; a dream to cast for small to medium water with a penchant for pocket water dry fly use. Sensational. $1550.
358. Jim's now famous highly regarded 7 1/2', 2/2, 7612. Same cosmetics as item 357 also with a half wells grip at 6" befitting the rod's length and weight. One of the nicest casting 5 Wt. 7 1/2' rods I've had the joy of casting. Again, somewhat brisk dry fly with a slight semi parabolic flavor. Truly masterpiece of workmanship and a superb performer. $1550.
359. This next offering; one that I have not had the pleasure of inventorying , a 7'10", 2/2, Sloan's Parabolic. Jim has insisted on my listing this rod as one of his favorite tapers and from what he tells me, extraordinarily popular among his clients. The rod has a distinct parabolic habit, a down locking blued seat over walnut; its tapers taken from an original piece and reminiscent of the best of the Paul Young's work. Made as a bespoke model for Sloan's Sporting Goods with the hand writing identical in style to Cleo Hanley's. She Did all the writing on Heddon rods at the time. Although I havent put a line on it just yet, with snow and weather, it feels like a cross between a Pezon et Michel and a Young Para 15 and 5 Wt. capable. Can't wait to get it out as it feels like it will throw a country mile. $1550.
360. Orvis Battenkill. 7 1/2', 2/2, serial number 68114, so 1973 (and specifically listed on the Reynolds database) 3 7/8 oz. 6 Wt. Most enthusiasts use it with 5 DT line. 6 1/2" cigar grip (soiled but rather smooth to the touch), down locking seat over unblemished varnished walnut insert, brown silks in perfect order over medium dark cane, perfect fitting blued ferrules, and all script perfectly clear and legible. Presents as a full bodied progressive dry fly rod capable as the quintessential "all around rod". Some random longitudinal scratches to the rod tube otherwise very good condition. $675. Sold
361. Truly a super find -- A 7 1/2', 3/2, W and M Granger Special. Lovely medium dark cane, the requisite pale green silks, 6 1/2" reverse half wells grip (soiled but perfectly smooth), internal up locking reel seat with the Wright and McGill die stamp, tight fitting ferrules, dead straight, perfect original varnish, and put up in its original bag and high grade tube with partial label intact. Rod has a super medium dry fly habit and casts a 5 line with aplomb. Just a great looking; great performing 7 1/2' rod with travel benefits. For its condition and format rarity, $925. Sold
362. Orvis Flea. 6 1/2', 2 oz., 4 Wt. Although Battenkill designation, sadly the rod comes to me with a single tip. All cork dual ring seat and soiled but smooth superfine grip, the usual chocolate silks, perfect fitting ferrules, dead straight with some absence of writing to the cane. What is clear is "Flea", 6 1/2' - 2 oz.HFG (4), the word "impregnated" distinguishable but compromised. Rod enjoys a super semi parabolic dry fly action with enough backbone to subdue any small stream prey. Its cork grip, according to the previous owner, was factory modified and supports a moderate thumb rest and right hand palm depression -- much like the Wes Jordan Special and surprisingly comfortable in spite of its diminutive configuration. The rod is put up in its original bag with fully legible label to its tube. A nice rod for small stream work at a modest $425. Sold
*363. Stunning rod from Steve and Charlie Jenkins (Steve vintage). Steve's Signature rod with his hallmark blued cap and ring, dark oven tempered cane, perfect brown silks, 6" cigar grip (lightly soiled) a la Garrison, morticed cherry reel seat, blued perfect fitting ferrules. Steve's execution for cosmetics, structural integrity and performance are above reproach. This is his, likely, most desirable model -- the GA 75 serial numbered 81. As an adherent of the Garrison vernacular, the rod has a progressive, pleasing action best used as a 5 Wt. much as the Garrison 206. One of the most perfect rods ever to enter the rod making history of America's "Best Rods". With 63 years of rod making history and workmanship that is unexcelled by most modern makers; his consistency of build is totally amazing. Excessively undervalued at $1575. Sold
364. Orvis Madison. On rare occasion, and when a client requested it, the Madison could be had with two tips. This is one such rod. So 6 1/2', 2 3/4oz., 4 Wt. and so designated on the tube label. 5 1/2" Superfine grip, down locking seat over walnut (with an unexplained surface chip just above the end cap), brown silks, blued perfect fitting ferrules and all script to the bamboo in perfect order. Serial number 62281 (1971) has a brisk progressive dry fly action quite able with dries, streamers and wet flies. Might even tolerate a bit of weight to the fly, as in bead head nymphs. Were it not for its soiled but smooth cork and that pesky blemish to the previously mentioned spacer, the rod would show as excellent. Pics will vividly evidence the compromise to the insert to be insignificant. $650. Sold
365. Orvis Superfine. 7', 2/2, 2 5/8 oz., About perfect condition dry fly rod. Serial number 52599, marginally soiled 5 1/2" healthy superfine grip and cork reel seat with a down locking screw affair -- absent any reel foot impressions. Lovely medium dark cane. Has all the expected Orvis cosmetic hallmarks. Showing minimal use, the rod is about perfect. $725. Sold
366. The ubiquitous Orvis 7 1/2', 3 7/8oz. do everything rod. Marked on the tube label and rod as a 6 Wt. it is often used with a 5 DT line. Frankly, I believe it best performs with a 6 weight line. Interestingly enough this Battenkill was built as a single tip rod and is so declared on the tube label, it was later supplied with a second tip with matching serial number, 69713, in what appears to be the same hand. Nice medium dark cane to the original butt and tip; a lighter tone to the later made matching (for taper) tip. The usual 6 1/2" cigar grip, soiled but smooth, down locking seat over walnut and all of the Orvis characteristics for performance and cosmetics for this ever popular model. $575.
367. Unusual for this site, a fiberglass Phillipson Master. Model G-MF76L 3 1/8 oz. 5 Wt. and is clearly indicated on the mustard colored blank. I also understand from consult with other dealers, that the "L" designation is notable. 6" cigar grip with some soiling but smooth in the hand, black anodized down locking seat in perfect order, forest green silks with the characteristic spiral accents for the model. Blank is perfect, metal ferrules fit perfectly. Although not a glass enthusiast, seems like the nicest action fiberglass production rod I've had. Put up in an original Phillipson bag; absent its tube. $225. Sold
368. A stunning rod by Bill Critchfield. 7 1/2', 3/2, 3/4 Wt. I like it as a fully loading 4 but quite able with either line. Full working semi parabolic action, 5" cigar grip, darkly flamed cane, perfect varnish application, blued cap and ring over what appears to be highly figured morticed maple Struble insert, red agate stripper guide, blued rather tight fitting ferrules, dead straight, sporting translucent perfectly applied silks with delicately applied black tipping. Serial number indicating a June 2014, 4th rod of the year. Bill tells me that the taper is a derivative of a light line FE Thomas design. One of the most perfect, elegant, contemporary rods this purveyor has seen. His cosmetic work above reproach. $825.
369. Rarely seen Orvis 7 1/2', 3/2, 6 Wt. With ferrule sizes 15/10 a slam dunk 5 Wt. 6" soiled (but smooth) cigar grip, down locking seat over patinated walnut, lovely dark cane, blued perfect fitting ferrules. Sports a bright dry fly habit strangely characteristic of 3 piece Orvis rods as one would expect that description more fitting for two piece rods. An anomaly found in in the Orvis rod design range. With exception noted, rod is in excellent condition. $875.
*370. Steve/Charlie Jenkins Classic GA75-85. 7 1/2', 2/2, 5 Wt. 6" cigar grip with very slight soiling (maybe lawn cast only), bright nickel silver cap and ring over cherry, brown silks tipped yellow a hallmark of the Classic range. Progressive dry fly/do everything rod. Medium straw colored cane and blessed with Steve's "The Jenkins Rod" engraved in the end cap. You'll not find a more perfect rod for cosmetics, structural details and Garrison like progressive performance among today's makers. You'll never find fault with any rod from the Jenkins workshop, never! $1550. Sold
*371. Another fabulous rod from Steve Jenkins. This one, a Signature model. GA80-94. So, 8' 2/2, 5 Wt. and again in the Garrison style with a progressive dry fly action after its namesake. Charlie was a proponent of the Garrison oevre and produced rods in that genre. 6" cigar grip a la Garrison, blued nickel silver cap and ring over morticed cherry, darker cane than his Classic effort with brown silks, blued ferrules, dead straight as expected perfect ferrule fit and all else absolutely perfect for cosmetic details and performance. The Jenkins rod although not sexy in appearance may be the most perfectly executed piece of workmanship among classic cane. Lawn cast only so near mint condition. Additionally and unusual, in Steve's hand a hang tag reading "Jenkins Signature GA80-94 8'0" 2/2, 4/5 WT." $1575.
*From my personal perspective, the most undervalued rod from any contemporary builder in today's market.
372. HL Leonard Pre-Fire rare model 65. 7 1/2', 2/2, 5/6 Wt. (most use it as a dry fly 5). Light cane with some random watermarks but believe to be intrinsic to the material. 3 x 3 node pattern, H.L. Leonard Rod Company, Makers to the cap in cartouch (thanks Marc), 5 1/2" soiled but smooth grip, red silks tagged black, butternut down locking seat and perfect original bag with as new hang tag indicating 4 1/4oz. #65. This is a medium fast dry fly rod much desired by enthusiasts everywhere. Includes its original ferrule plug and excellent condition bag -- like new really. I remember this rod as one that I sold some years ago. Had a longitudinal split in the tube collar that I addressed and is still structurally perfect with the cap fitting as it should. Refinished by a now forgotten, very competent restorationist. The rod was mine at the get go so I can vouch for the refinish being absent new sections or parts and believe it was overcoated only. Aside from the soiled but very smooth grip, quite perfect with original bag, tag and narrow pre-fire tube. Really a quite amazing pre-fire dry fly example of the model for collecting or use. My original label shows that I sold it for $2200. Here, in the current market, $1450.
373. Mario Wojnicki. 8' (actual, 7'11 1/2"), 2/2, dry fly 5 Wt. He uses European measures. This is an unused Pent with paper still on the handle. Fiberglass ferrules and in perfect condition. Pics upon request. List price from Mario for this model is $3850 with a 2 to 3 year wait for delivery. Here, a spectacular example of his work at a modest $2800.
208. Hardy Silent Check Husky Multiplier. 3 1/4" diam. , 1 1/2" overall width. Ridged brass foot, heavy nickel silver 2 screw line guard, easy change spool release, currently RHW but reversible, (instructions on U Tube). Very minor absence of finish near the handle -- about 1/4" worth -- otherwise excellent plus condition with original blue/white case. Came to me with a WF9F line that I removed for its unpleasant discoloration. Holds the 9 wt line plus 200 yds. 20# test backing. Just a super traditional multiplier with a great non cork incredibly smooth disc drag ahead of its time for engineering. Part of the Lightweight series from Hardy likely 1970's manufacture. Quite a nice performing reel for salmon or other big fish and proud to be mounted on your favorite bamboo 9' 8/9 wt rod. I used this reel in Alaska some years ago with absolutely no failure with Silvers and Chums. A great undervalued reel in its size and performance range. Reduced to $175.
224. 3 1/8" Hardy Perfect. Rarely seen 1917/1921 example. (reference "Graham Turner A Collector's Guide") RHW. Bone handle, single 1917 check, solid aluminum (original) foot stamped England, interior numbered B22, agate line guard without cracks, "Hardy's Patent Alnwick" in the round surrounding its flush brass boss with 3 flush pins showing. The reel is absolutely tight and smooth no spool wobble whatsoever. Rim mounted coin edged drag adjust works perfectly and is full range. Owing to the incredible quality control that Hardy exerted at the time, after more than 100 years, although there is about complete absence of bluing, the reel is mechanically perfect -- buttery smooth in both incoming and outgoing modes -- and is ready to accommodate 4 or 5 wt lines on your favorite 7 1/2 or 8 foot bamboo rod. Put up in a contemporary black Hardy case compliments yours truly. $525 . Sold
228. Limited edition Hardy Perfect with the Spitfire spool. Duplicated Mark II, 2 7/8", 5.3 oz., RHW, unblemished milky agate line guard, charcoal enamel finish, rim mounted full range drag adjust, ribbed aluminum foot, and put up in its original Hardy logoed block leather case. Around 2000/2001 Hardy issued this very special edition reel limited to 250; this one numbered 02 with the makers mark CSN to the interior. Just a beautiful reel with all the expected attributes of the marque -- smooth running, tight as a drum, great drag system... Has had minimal use with some random mars and very light scratches to the rear plate only that I bet could be polished out. Otherwise excellent plus condition. Seen on other sites for as much as $750. Here, at a reasonable $575. Sold
242. Orvis EXR (exposed rim variant). Presentation reel made in Argentina for Orvis with spare spool. At 3 1/4" diam. the most desirable size of the model able as a 5/6/7 wt. Only slight rim rash and mounting marks to the foot ends, palming variation, beautiful black anodized finish, rim mounted full range drag adjust, easy on easy off spool release and ergonomically contoured handle. A beautiful reel that has been underappreciated. Presents as a disc drag for operation -- smooth as can be with a precise and incredibly competent drag protocol. I've never known one of these reels to fail under any circumstance. Now set for LHW but reversible. A great reel but sadly no longer contracted by Orvis with STH of Argentina. With case and pouch for its spare spool. $325.
247. Stan Bogdan model 100 in mint unused condition with spare spool. 3 1/2" frame diameter, 1 5/32" spool, WF9F capacity with 110 yds., 11.2 oz. and 2:1 retrieve protocol. Aside from its spectacular condition, the coolest aspect of this offering is that both the reel and spool come in individual hard leather sheepskin lined Orvis marked cases made by Holland Sport -- also in mint condition. So sold through Orvis when Stan had that arrangement. According to Graydon Hilyard, author of the Bogdan tome, Bogdan sold his reels through Orvis from 1957 to 1977 when demand from retail clients became so overwhelming that he had to discontinue his gentleman's agreement with Orvis. This is the first time this dealer has seen the Bogdan reel put up in the Orvis cases. Spectacular condition and a fabulous package to be sure. Deserves photographs. $2800. Sold
248. Abel SD 4/5 wt. Modern sealed drag reel, still in production, serial number 3621. 5 oz. 3 1/4" diam. mid arbor. Stunning glossy black anodized finish, ergonomically designed handle, mid arbor high performance reel. The quintessential reel for 4 or 5 wt graphite rods no matter the length . MSRP for this reel is $695 and can be seen on most sites in excess of $625. Here with original case, with backing and as new. $425.
261. Hardy 3 3/8" LHW Perfect. A super 6/7 Wt. reel. Made in England, this iteration with the raised center boss, ceramic line guide, rim mounted full range, smooth as silk drag adjust, black bezeled handle and smooth alloy foot. Although I can barely see some very minor mounting mars to the foot ends, the reel seems unused. Tough to find these reels in LHW. This one with original black and white box, paperwork, original black case and perfectly mint condition spare spool in its orange and white box. On some sites at $795 sans spare spool, here with its unused spare spool, $625. Sold
265. 3 1/8" Perfect. RHW. This ultra smooth running post 1928 Mark 2 reel sports a ridged brass foot, nickel silver line guard, knurled nickel silver rim mounted drag adjust with full range adjustment, has number 156 die stamped to all three sections and has about 80% bluing remaining. Not entirely sure, but believe the handle might have been replaced although there is no evidence of structural compromises to the revolving plate's interior. Has straight line writing and am guessing, for the ridged brass foot and flush boss surrounded by concentric circles, that it is late 1930's/early 1940's manufacture. Tight smooth and begging for an 8' 5/6 wt. rod to accompany it. Mechanically perfect; cosmetically very good. Coming to me without a case or pouch, put up in a nice suede case appropriate for its size. Modestly priced at $350. Sold
269. Ross Canyon BG4. One of the best, if not the best, designed big game reels on the market today. Anodized black, LHW but can be converted, 3.75 diam., overall width 1 1/2", 8.3 oz., holds WF 8 line and 185 yds of 20# backing. These are truly remarkable reels and as always Ross is ahead of the curve for engineering, performance and value. Quick release spool, entirely enclosed unfailing drag system,; about impossible for a fish to spool you for its fabulous drag and greater line capacity than other LA reels. Developed in 2002 and still on the market for its immense popularity and incredible value. Best big game , salt water reel ever made in my opinion. I myself have two BG 4's using one with an 8 WT line the other with a 9. Insignificant rim rash to the edge and minor check to the spool edge. Went unnoticed by me until writing this entry. Comes with its original Ross case. Has a brand new WF8F line with loop as a bonus. A virtual steal at $250. Sold
271. Another Ross Canyon. This one a BG5. Also LHW and greater capacity than the BG4. Tiny rim rash to the back edge. Appears to have had only one or two uses. Ross case and unknown, as new line. $275.
* For a comprehensive description in much detail of these reels go to tackletour.com/reviewrosscanyon
274. Hardy Sovereign 2000 # 7. 3 1/2" diameter, 7 1/8th" spool width. Can carry a 6DT or 7 Wt. line with plenty of backing. Anodized satin black, comfortable tapered handle, perforated spool and rear frame, full range self lubricating disc drag with easy access control knob to the verso, choice of silent (poacher's) drag switch and just a lovely soft, even click retrieve. This is by far one of the most highly engineered reels ever produced. To change from RHW to LHW a simple flip of a flange to the interior of the spool gives you an easy option -- actually pretty sophisticated piece of design and like no other reel on the market. To quote the catologue that first introduced the model, the drag exhibits no measurable compression or start up inertia and nominal heat retention for those interminably long runs with powerful game. Has the added bonus of salt water capability. One of the finest reels ever produced by Hardy and of course made in England. Put up in a selvyt bag, with original box (torn and repaired by yours truly) with original paperwork. First introduced in 1999, truly an astonishing feat of engineering from The House of Hardy. A few random, no, isolated, ticks (if you can find them without a glass) to the spool edge otherwise excellent to near mint condition. This original version has apparently been reintroduced for its popular demand with all internal mechanism as originally conceived. Latest retail price is $625. Grossly undervalued at $325.
277. Hardy Narrow Spool 3 1/8" LHW Perfect. This is a lately produced model that originally sold for (and still does on various shop sites) for $895. And the range of new prices seems to be 695-895. This is the one with the minimally raised center boss, 3 pins showing to the center pin, nickel silver line guard, black ebonite handle, and writing to the front plate in the round. Has the usual rim mounted full range drag adjust, beautifully knurled edge work and perfectly designed foot to fit all rods. Just a great 4/5 wt real to balance out that 7 1/2-8' bamboo rod. New and oh so vintage for its absolute replication of the original design. The reel is brand new in its lovely black pigskin sheepskin lined Hardy Bros logoed clam shell case with all original warranty papers and use guidance in its original box. Elsewhere and all over the net at upwards of 675. Just a beautiful piece of kit and available here at a modest $575. Sold
279. Perhaps the rarest reel from the House of Hardy from the Lightweight series of reels -- the St. Andrew. 4 1/8" diameter, 1 1/8" spool width, heavy two screw line guard with patent number die stamp, ribbed aluminum foot, dust cover two screw latch and rim mounted full range drag adjust. Now set for RHW is easily converted to LHW. Just a great spey reel for graphite or bamboo with a spectacular vintage appearance. Some finish absent from the spool face, some edge wear, random scratches to the verso, no line grooves to the line guard or elsewhere; all in all a nice tight example of a rarely seen reel from the Lightweight range. Put up in its original cream/red case. Detailed photos of the exterior as well as the innards upon request. For its rarely seen offering, a modest $250. Sold
285. Hardy Flyweight. At 2 1/2" diameter, the perfect 3 weight reel. This vintage piece sports the desirable heavy nickel silver two screw (unbuggered) line guard. RH/LH constant drag and retrieve; seems to favor RHW. But of course, reversible. Finish wear to its back plate and some edge wear to face and edges. So a mechanically perfect, tight as a drum reel with some honest use. Put up in a Marriott case. $100.
286. Hardy LRH Lightweight. 3 1/4" diam. -- the perfect light 5 WT reel. Verso reads "Made by House of Hardy, England". Brand new with case, box and papers. I added a perfect fitting spare spool of the same vintage. Spare spool has previous owner's name and SS number neatly scratched into the back of the spare spool but invisible to the face. $300.
287. Orvis CFO III. 3" perfect 5 Wt reel. Can tolerate 6 WF lines as well. As new in its original Orvis marked suede case. The reel is truly in perfect order. $325.
288. Hardy made Featherweight. 2 7/8" reel perfect for 4 Wt. lines. Single screw line guard. Very minor wear to the rear edge otherwise excellent condition in original blue and white case with papers. $250.
289. Another Featherweight. Made by Hardy. Identical to lot 288. This one in mint unused condition with blue case and original box. $300.
290. Another Featherweight. This one brand new in blue case with papers. Reads Made by House of Hardy England. Single screw line guard. Mounting mars to foot ends otherwise about mint condition. $250
291. Orvis CFO II Disc. 3" reel perfect for 4 or 5 Wt. lines. This is the copper colored variant with the circular perforations to the frame rim. Has a drag knob to the verso, tapered rosewood handle, perforated rear plate, made in England circular script and the usual easy spool release. One minor nick to the rear frame at 12 o'clock almost not worth mentioning and only noticed by me while making this entry, otherwise mint condition with original suede logoed Orvis pouch. $275.
292. Orvis Battenkill 5/6 and spare spool. Made in England, likely by Hardy. This is the cast aluminum variant that replicates the Scientific Angler version of the reel. Click and pawl that is unusual, in that most of these reels are disc drag types. Ergonomically fashioned handle, soft gray enamel finish and full range drag adjust to the verso. Reel, currently set for LHW, but reversible holds an as new Cortland 444SL WF5 F/S, sink tip line. A super reel for 7 1/2' -- 8 1/2' 5/6 wt rods. Reel is put up in its original Orvis case; spare spool contained in an Orvis pouch. The reel is in excellent condition. A great value in blue collar reels at a modestly priced $125.
293. ATH Rio Orbigo F2. All black, serial number 0463, early reel likely made in Holland by Ari T Hart. LHW. Perfect silent or click drag and retrieve. 5/6/7 weight capacity. Put up in a felt case with cordovan lining. Not terribly keen on the variations of the reel, I'm pricing it at what I believe the reel generally brings regardless of vintage. So, the reel in mint condition, $425.
294. Another ATH. This one, the small Traun F1 with spare spool. The perfect 4 wt reel. Serial number 4561. All black with red script to the verso. Fully functional click drag and retrieve -- extraordinarily smooth. both reel and spool put up in beautiful leather cases with the ATH logo impressed that may very well be an indication of vintage (?). Mint condition. $675.
295. Hardy Marquis #5. 3" diam, made in England by Hardy. Exposed rim for easy palming, traditional full range click drag, easy access rear drag to verso, charcoal gray frame, silver (polished aluminum) spool rim. Put up in original black Hardy case with papers and in mint condition with backing applied. Now set for LHW but reversible. this is a great reel for graphite or bamboo and is modestly priced at $200.
296. Abel TR 2. 3" diameter; the perfect 5 Wt. reel. Constant RH or LH drag protocol, ergonomically designed rosewood handle, rosewood decorative button to the verso, black anodized soft black finish. Complete with original neoprene case, spare spring, and papers. Aside from light mounting marks to the foot ends, mint condition. $225.
297. Hardy Flyweight from the Lightweight series of reels and the smallest of the range. 2 1/2", 3 wt capacity. Has constant RH/LH drag system, now set for LHW. Put up in its original blue and white case with paperwork. Mint condition. $250.
298. Orvis CFO II plus spare spool. "H" designed line guide, currently set for LHW but reversible, rocker protocol dual pawl design to the interior, Made by Hardy and just the perfect 4 Wt. reel at 2 3/4" diameter with full range drag adjust to verso. Spare spool does not have an Orvis logo to it but fits the spool pefectly? Certain that it is of Orvis production i.e. Hardy but a bit of a mystery lacking the Orvis imprimatur. Both reel and spool are in mint condition in Orvis logoed suede case. $325
299. Orvis CFO III. 3" diam and the perfect 4/5 Wt. reel. Domed rear boss, two rivets to the exterior back and insignificant edge wear. Set for LHW but of course reversible. This is from the desirable vintage without line guide. $275.
300. Orvis CFO IV. 3 1/4" diameter and the perfect 5 Wt. reel. Domed rear boss, Set for LHW but reversible. "H" shaped line guard, minor mounting mars to the foot ends and one area (about 1/4") of enamel absent from the spool edge otherwise near perfect in its original Battenklil sheepskin lined case. My favorite light reel for 5 Wt. lines, although it can tolerate 6 WTF lines. $300.
301. Orvis CFO III with quiet aluminum finish. Just as the Anniversary issue sans serial number. "H" shaped line guard, full range rear mounted drag adjust, rocker drag protocol to the interior, made by Hardy, presently LHW, black bezeled handle, put up in the suede leather sheepskin lined case and in mint condition aside from mounting mars to its foot ends and unknown as new line. Beautiful presentation of the variant. $425.