View Full Version : Fishing "antique" bamboo rods
All of Stew's posts got me to thinking about the old bamboo rods that are gathering dust at my parents house. Does anyone fish with these old rods? Is it likely that I would break one as long as I keep my line pretty well matched to the rod and try not to hook into any monsters? I know that it would depend a lot on the condition of the rod, but does anyone know if age causes any serious deterioration?
It seems like it would be fun to give it a shot.
Grantspastor
07-27-2005, 02:06 PM
First..I'd have all of those old rods evaluated and valued by someone who knows bamboo. Chances are most or all of them are not super valuable rods, but you never know. I'd find our first. Then check for separations along glue lines. Most old rods need to be re-wrapped. If you can get some manufacturers names, and/or rod models there are several of us who can give you an idea of their worth. Bottom line..if the rod is good or satisfactory condition..fish with it.
I personaly would rather fondle and admire my bamboo rods than risk damaging any of them.
drbfish
07-28-2005, 09:16 PM
Rods are made to be fished! I have no problem fishing 60 year old rods, infact I think it would be a shame not to.
Look for delaminations between the pieces, look for loose ferrules, watch/feel for any 'clicking' in the ferrules.
Thanks for all the input guys. I think I'll take Grantspastor's advice and see if they are worth anything before I go out and start flailing away.
I'm kind of hoping they won't be worth anything so I can fish them! How cool would it be to catch fish on a rod that my grandpa used?