Can A Vintage Fishing Rod Compare With A Modern One?
Can an old fishing rod actually compete with the best modern day cf rods? Not only people interested in fly fishing, but other anglers have considered this issue. Is getting hold of a classic vintage fishing rod actually practical and beneficial?
Well, it is pretty much linked to what kind of fishing you are interested in. Fiberglass rods have long since been surpassed by cf or carbon fiber fishing poles. So buying an old fiberglass rod would be a waste of money. Additionally, there is a fair amount of risk involved in buying an old rod, as the chances are high that it has been scratched, dented, cracked or otherwise damaged in some way. So basically a damaged rod is useless for fishing.
However, when it comes to bamboo rods, and in particular split cane fishing rods, the answer is not so clear. There are many anglers that say that even with the latest progress in modern fishing rod manufacture, a state-of-the-art carbon fiber rod cannot match the action, flexibility and durability of a split cane fishing rod. Split cane fishing rods have an action that allows them to cast lighter weights, lures and baits than their cf counterparts. Another important consideration for many is the appearance of a quality vintage cane rod, which more closely resembles a piece of artwork than just another piece of fishing gear.
Are They Usable For Catching Fish?
Therefore, those who fish in sheltered water environments such as in fly fishing or spinning, would seem to benefit from buying a good bamboo rod. Always keep in mind, however, that older rods could have had their fish catching ability compromised because of damage. So be quite paranoid about searching out any defects in the bamboo of a vintage cane rod. Be on the lookout for water stains, discoloration, dents, splits, cracks or anything else that seems suspicious. If the bamboo is sound, and the price is right, the rod could well be worth purchasing. Most of the other fittings on a cane fishing rod can be restored to their original condition for a modest sum, so do not panic if the whippings are frayed or the ferrules are a little loose. Catching the fish species it was designed for will present no difficulties if the rod you have bought has been restored to its original state, or if bought in very good condition.
Milwards is a name synomomous with quality bamboo fishing rods. Milwards rods are prized by angles and collectors alike for their action, fittings and manufacture. Even the basic Milwards rods featured the best equipment such as agate rings for tip rings and guides, Tonkin cane and Spanish reed, and both whole and compound construction. Milwards fly fishing and spinning rods were designed to fit into specific fishing niches and therefore were often excellent match rods. For example, the Milwards FloatMaster was perfect for casting float rigs, while the SpinVersa was magnificent at casting extremely lightweight baits or lures Due to their reputation as one of the best vintage fishing rods, Milwards gear rarely comes up for sale. One way of obtaining one is by enticing the owner to swap it to you in exchange for a vintage piece of fishing tackle of similar value.
So although a fiberglass rod is no subsitute for a modern cf one, a split cane fishing rod may well perform better in certain environments and for certain fish species. They also have considerable value as collector’s items and as pieces of art. The decision whether or not to go with a sound vintage fishing rod is not that difficult at all when it comes down to it!
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