South Bend Bamboo fly rod #53

Question
Found a South Bend bamboo fly rod #53 in very good condition. With 2 tips rod sock and tube. Rod shows very little usage. 9 foot, total of 11 guides, line weight HCH. Would a WF line cast any better than HCH  if so what weight? Any other info. about this rod would be greatly appreciated  my search so far has turned up very limited results. Thanks

Answer
Dave,
WF, weight forward is a line style not a weight. HCH is equivalent to modern line weights (AFTMA ) of 7, double tapered.
One of the problems with fishing old bamboo rods is the guides are smaller , as the line used pre 1950 was a smaller diameter. I would recommend vintage line - looks like braided or silk , if you can find it or put on bigger guides and use a 6 weight.

History of SouthBend rod Company:
http://www.bigfishtackle.com/cgi-bin/gforum/gforum.cgi?post=518579

Books (try the library)
Antique %26 Collectible  Fishing Rods: Identification %26 Value Guide Homel, Dan. 1997 (2nd edition 2000) add about 30% for age of book.
Bamboo Rod Restoration Handbook by Michael Sinclair
Classic %26 Antique Fly-Fishing Tackle: A Guide for Collectors %26 Anglers by A.J. Campbell

Sinclair mentions your rod number and some details of wrap color and specifics. Homel doesn't mention your rod model specifically but I get a value from similar rods.

Homel gives the South Bend Model #77 fly rod 9' with an extra tip, 3 sections the  value of  $35, 80 and $150 for poor, good, excellent condition respectively. Fewer sections and shorter rods sell for more.

I quote these books written by researchers so you know I am not making it all up, But I include my experience as well.

It has taken me the best part of an hour to write this up , please take a few seconds to provide feedback. Please remember I am a volunteer , the feedback is the only result I get from doing this.

Luck,
Mac

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