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About Joe Douglas
Expertise
I can answer questions on custom rod building and rod restoration and rod repair for bamboo, graphite and fiberglass fishing rods. I also have experience in estimating the value of vintage rods and determining the original manufacturer.

Experience
I operate a custom rod building business providing fly rods, spey rods, casting and spinning rods in bamboo graphite and fiberglass. I have a personal interest in vintage rods and have a small collection of reference books and articles which often help shed light on the origins of the older rods.

Organizations
Rod Builders International

Publications
Web Site: www.blackdogtackle.com

Education/Credentials
BS, Business Administration, University of Tulsa

You are here: Experts > Recreation/Outdoors > Fishing > Fishing > Vintage Bamboo Fishing Rod

Fishing - Vintage Bamboo Fishing Rod

Expert: Joe Douglas - 10/22/2009

Question
Hi, I picked up an old Bamboo Fishing rod at the local thrift store. I tried to find the manufacturer of it, based on the decal. Its half gone and all i can make out is a black M on a red decal. Its not a montague, but I searched ebay and found a mitsuru pole that has almost the same style of tip and guides and some of the same color of thread wraps, but the decal on it is much different. Any help would be appreciated

Thank you

Answer
Hi Rindy,

I would probably need to see a picture of the rod and even then might not be much help. If you have this ability, send me a few pictures at joe@blackdogtackle.com and I'll review them.

How old do you think it might be? Mitsuru likely would be post WW II vintage. Earlier than that might be M&H Sporting Goods, Montgomery Wards or even an early Montague. It may be that the rod is a private label rod made for a retail outlet and carrying their label. Sometimes it is possible to narrow down the original maker by the rod's appearance. Pictures help.

Thanks, Joe

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