A friend of mine gave me a Hardy bamboo fly rod. It is in structurally sound condition and straight. The wraps are all intact but while the varnish is all there and appears sound it has a rough texture. When I checked the serial number on this rod I found it was made in May of 1890. Since this rod is 132 years old I don't want to lose the patina by rebuilding the rod. Has anyone used any of the "restore a finish" products to bring back the smooth texture of the varnish. At a 132 years old I doubt I will take the chance and fish this rod, I just want to repair the varnish if I can without losing the patina that only 132 years can give.
Given a new very old bamboo fly rod
- Thread starter jerry
- Start date
I will try to take some today.
Bambooflyguy
Life of the Party
If you’re not going to fish it I’d leave it in it‘s original condition.....it took 132 years to look that way! My .02
Second Steve's thoughts. A classic rod from the 1890s in original condition might be one to leave unchanged due to its historical value and interest. My own .02. Either way, post pics please! Ron
I've come across a few rare, higher quality bamboo rods over the years and have ended up doing four things in succession: 1) enjoy a lawn casting session or two to enjoy that rod's unique taper, 2) taken photos of the rod to keep for my own memories and/or to share, 3) sold the rod to a collector that has a special interest in that rod and 4) used that money to buy a rod or reel I'd actually fish. But I do have to admit that once they leave your possession you will never get another chance to own that rod again so you need to be sure you won't regret your decision later. Good luck!
Lots of good comments. I think leaving it as is would be the thing to do. Even though the varnish is a little rough, you wouldn't repaint a Rembrandt because of a little rough paint. Attached are a few photos. You can see that the label is readable and the rough texture of the varnish.
Bambooflyguy
Life of the Party
Very nice Hardy! Does it have a white agate stripper/tip top?
Yes, It does.
That rod has earned that varnish and patina. When I get an old rod, I usually keep the grip as is. I like the idea of all of the people who have fished that rod before me still being a part of the rod.
I’d suggest a good long waiting period before doing anything to that rod. Like a year.
And while we’re here, can you introduce me to your friend who’s just handing out Hardys?
NO! I keep such friends to myself. I have another friend that sold me a nice large arbor hardy reel for $20. I tried (not very hard) to tell him that it was worth more. I am just that kind of guy. I am not going to live forever and my wife will most likely sell my fly-fishing stuff for what she thinks I paid for them. Thirty years ago she sold my $500 Italian 15 speed bike for $10. Stand by.
My wife doesn't use Ebay. You will have to watch the obits section of the Kitsap Sun.Totally understand.
Now, can you tell me your wife’s eBay username?
I have to tell you I am having some fun with these posts. I think many of us are in the same boat with our wives. 
flybill
Life of the Party
I would definitely keep that rod, what a beauty! Cast it a few times and see if it's fishable.. to me it looks like it, but a few times casting and you can make sure the guides are all in good shape. Assuming it is good, find a nice spot to fish and enjoy it!
The fact that you were given it from a friend makes it extra specail! I look forward to seeing some picture in action, on the lawn or water..
Cheers!
The fact that you were given it from a friend makes it extra specail! I look forward to seeing some picture in action, on the lawn or water..
Cheers!
I like Bill's idea. If it is fishable, take it out and catch a decent trout, take a nice pic of the rod/trout/stream, then retire the rod and hang the pic on the wall and share the photo with us. Wish that rod could tell the stories of its outings over the years.
Sounds like a good Idea. I have a few rods that I treasure and catching a single fish with them and then retiring the rod sounds like a nice idea. The other rods are trade rods and don't have much of a pedigree. They belonged to my Dad and uncles. I would hate to damage them. They have earned a retirement.
