QuestionHi Rich,
I recently came across a fly rod bearing the name "Lil Gem". It is 6'4" 2/2. It was identified as a South Bend, or it has a South Bend reel seat. I can't find any information on this rod online or in my collectors books. Ever heard of it by SB or any other makers.
Thanks for you time.
Craig
AnswerCraig,
I am making some assumptions , it is flat sided (bamboo) and a fly rod (reel seat below handle).
If either of the above is wrong them the following may be off:
It is very unlikely that your rod was made by South Bend. They used numbers not names.
Yes, I have heard of other makers using Gem in their title but they are new makers not vintage.
6'4 is also not going to be South Bend, the shortest they made was 7'
The name Gem is not in :
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
nor my memory.
And believe it or not , that says allot . Add the fact we both searched the internet , it means that it was made by an individual maker ,like me , who is off the radar. It is also not going to resale for much.
Pictures and more details if you wan to continue to
[email protected].
Luck,
Mac
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