Mohawk Bamboo Fly Rod

Question
I have a Mohawk Bamboo Fly rod given to me By My Uncle Joe when I was about 12 years old (approx 1951 or 1952.  It was his one of his rods at that time.

I can find no other markings on the rod other than the Mohawk logo.  It is an 8 ft rod with two tips.

Can you tell me anything about the rod and what it might be worth?

Thank you,

Answer
Good evening Mr. Popp,

Thanks for your question.

Bamboo or split cane fly rods are pure art no matter what the brand name. They have a response and feel that is difficult to match and many fly anglers relish them.

The "Mohawk" logo, while used by a number of other fishing tackle manufacturers in both the midwest and northeast, was most famously used by a very large tackle manufacturer of days gone by; Horrocks-Ibittson. While they had extensive lines of rods and reels to their credit, most were targeted to the entry level angler and quite modestly priced. You would find them commonly in the Sears Roebuck catalogs as well as other mail-order houses of the day.

Without further markings, type of guides, colors of wrappings and other features that H-I incorporated into their rods, it is a bit tough to positively identify yours. H-I manufactured or had them manufactured from the early 1900's on...thousands of them.

Value? Split cane rods made by the elite manufacturers of the past and the present,(I once owned a Thomas and Thomas, a flawless six-weight), produced incredible fly rods that vary in price from $1100.00 to as much as $4500.00 and more. You may well find a collector online that will want this particular rod. Perhaps it will complete a collection, provide parts for a repair or complete a set. Just remember, the market value of any collectible is what the buyer is willing to pay!

I would encourage you to search "Split bamboo" or "split cane fly rod collectors" and follow the links to expert collectors and dealers in fly fishing antiquities. Who knows? In mint condition you may well find an individual that would consider paying a few hundred dollars for the rod you own although probably not much more. My guess is it will hold far more sentimental value than it would bring on the open market in dollars.

As for my best advice, make sure it is in good working order, get yourself a fly reel to match the era and take it fishing! That is what it was born to do! Have fun!

Thank you for asking you question. I hope it helps you!