AboutJoe 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
Question I HAVE DISCOVERED AN OLD ROD/REEL COMBO THAT IS QUITE UNIQUE AND WAS HOPING YOU COULD SHARE MORE ABOUT IT. WHAT I HAVE IS A METAL ROD IN WHICH THE LINE PASSES THROUGH THE CENTER OF THE ROD INSTEAD OF THROUGH EYELETS. THE MARKINGS INDICATE W.E CO. L.A.CAL. & ON THE OTHER SIDE IT IS STAMPED GUIDE FREE PAT. PEND. THE REEL IS AN OLD SOUTH BEND 550 ANTI BACKLASH. IS THIS A COLLECTABLE? THANKS IN ADVANCE! TODD
Answer Hi Todd,
Here is a link to an interesting article in Popular Mechanics from October 1997 about this type of rod.
There have been a few of these "pass-through" or "interline" or "guideless" rods over the years. Modern ones seem to be finding favor.
I honestly don't know if the older models have much collector value. They are an oddity and could very well bring buyers looking for something a bit unusual.
Your rod is probably made of extruded steel. Companies like Horton Manufacturing (Bristol), American Fork & Hoe, Gephart and others made a variety of steel rods. You might want to search some of the old patent data online to see if you can find a rod that looks like yours.
You might want to try posting a comment or question on one of the forums like fiberglassflyrodders.com or bloodydecks.com and see if there is any interest. At the very least you might find someone who knows more about them than I do.
