Orvis Traveler fly rod

Question
QUESTION: Hi Joe,
  Years ago my dad gave me an Orvis rod that to this day I have never used. I'm torn between keeping it and selling it but was wondering what it may be worth. It's a 7' Traveler in a 6 wt. Serial # looks like 0783. The rod's in good shape, but has been used. Thanks for any info, Brad.

ANSWER: Hi Brad,

Is this rod made of bamboo or graphite?  About when did you receive it and was it new at the time?

Thanks,  Joe

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for your quick response. I'm guessing but I think it's been 20 years or so. It is a graphite rod and was not new when I got it. It says 3 0z.(6)on bottom of aluminum reel seat, and the reason I have not used it. I've taken it along on many trips, but end up using another rod. I'm taking my daughter on a trip to Alaska for rainbows and want a new rod, but can't justify the cost, hence this inquiry. Thanks again, Brad.

Answer
Hi Brad,

Thanks for the info.  At 3.0 ounces and 6wt, I'm wondering if this rod could be fiberglass?  If so, it would be older than you think.  Orvis made a fiberglass pack rod in 4 piece at 7'0" in about 1980.

I'm not finding much about this rod.  Orvis still sells the travel rod but the newest graphite version is a 7-piece rod and typically is 8'6" or 9'0" in length.  New price is around $200 for one of these.

Yours is a 7'0" rod in 4-piece configuration and a nice lightweight rod that is easy to pack around with a very low serial number.  I would think in good used condition the rod should be worth in the $100-$200 range.  The shorter rods tend to be more desirable and hold their value pretty well.

A 6wt rod should be able to handle a fairly nice rainbow.  I don't know how big they get where you are headed, but this one might work if it won't bring enough money to help finance a new rod.

Thanks,  Joe