Bamboo Fly rods
- This topic has 2 replies, 3 voices, and was last updated Jun 23, 2006 at 3:52 pm by
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Hello,
After reading Zach’s review of his Thramer rod, and listening to the podcast about bamboo rods, I am considering getting one.
bamboo fly rods are made with two tips because bamboo has a tendancy to take a ‘set’ if subjected to too much bending. It was expected that the user would alternate tips.
Bamboo is very romantic but is more maintenance intensive than either glass or graphite. Impregnated rods are less so, but it is a good idea to check the varnish every once in awhile so that no bare bamboo is showing. the glue joins will absorb water. A goood paste wax a couple of times a year will also help.
Although I own a couple(Orvis Madison in 6wt and a nice little Phillipson in 5 wt.) I don’t fish with them all that often. I prefer graphite or glass. I think they are more rugged and versitile and less a pain in the ass.
But ,you see, I learned to fly fish with a bamboo rod and greased silk fly line.
I have a brother that fishes only bamboo so there is room for everybody.
If you are considering buying one ask the maker if you can test drive one of his/her models. Not every maker is an artisan and even two rods made with the irons set at the same taper may not have the same action. Impregnating bamboo rods was an attempt to get a consistancy of action out of an inconsistant material.
see if you can get ahold of Carmichaels book on bamboo rod building. That will give you more information.
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