Old fishing poles

Question
Hi-

I just dug out my grandfather's old fishing poles. They seem to be from the 50s - 60s. 2
are made from wood and are skinnier and look lighter duty. There are two others that
are fiber glass. One fiberglass rod says "Hi Ike Walton NO. 2727 6 ft." on it, and a wood
rod says "Genuine Tonkin Cane Fish Rod H-I Horrocks Ibbotson co. utica, NY. I don't
really know much about fishing, but I'll be with friends that do and I'd like to fish with
them. I need to bring my own rod. We'll be fishing down the shore of NJ. I was
wondering what you could tell me about any of these rods. There are reels and weights
and other things which look to be in good condition. If I get new line, could I fish with
these? ANd are they worth anything?

Thanks!

-Dan

Answer
Dan,

Its hard to tell what form of fishing your equipment is made for. Usually, surf fishing rods are very tall to allowing you to cast into the surf.

Two of the rod sound like split bamboo (six pieces of bamboo glued together forming a hexagonal shape rod). If it is bamboo, then the varnish often breaks down and the bamboo becomes brittle. Depending on maker, condition and completeness these rods might have collectors value.

The fiberglass rods can be fished with, the Ike Walton rod might have some value as a collectors item - again depending on condition.

If you can send photos of the rods, reels and other equipment I can get a better feel for what type of fishing its for, etc.

If the reels are in good condition, they would probably need cleaning and oiling.

Bob Vermillion
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