Question
miltex rod
hi, i have an old miltex fishing rod.It says miltex on the wooden box it is in.The title on the box is 3-way combination fishing kit.It also says NO.f18 on the box and fly casting-bait casting- spinning. under the title.there are five pieces in the box: a cork handel,and four rod pices,two of wich are interchangable depending on what cind of fishing you want to do,fly or bait casting.It is a six sided bambo rod,and it is in great condition.i bought it at a rummage sale and just want to know what it is worth and the history.the box has a few of the original baits and sinkers in it ,but no reels or line.The box itself is in ok condition,but missing the handel.thanks
AnswerHello -
Your Miltex rod was made in Japan in the late 1940's to early 1950's. These bamboo rod kits were sold in very large numbers to servicemen returning from WWII and the Korean War.
These combination rods were of relatively low quality and while very pretty, they were not particularly good fishing rods.
These kits usually sell for less than $100 if they are complete and in true "mint" condition. Most of them have more value as sentimental keepsakes than as fishing collectibles. Since yours is rummage sale find, I would imagine its value is greatest as a decorative piece. Your best bet to maximize its value would be to place it for sale on eBay or a similar venue.
Wish I had better news for you!
Best,
Michael Sinclair
