FLY RODS BAMBOO 9′ 3 PC 7-8WT SOUTH BEND & HORROCKS IBOTTSON (HI)
It looks like you’re referencing two classic bamboo fly rod models: the South Bend and the Horrocks-Ibbotson (H-I). Both companies were prominent American tackle manufacturers in the mid-20th century, known for producing high-quality bamboo (split-cane) fly rods. Here’s a breakdown of the details you provided and what they might signify:
Key Specifications:
– Material: Bamboo (split-cane construction)
– Length: 9 feet (a versatile length for bamboo rods, often used for larger rivers or wet-fly fishing)
– Pieces: 3-piece (common for travel/storage convenience)
– Line Weight: 7-8 WT (a heavier taper, suitable for larger fish, streamers, or wind-resistant flies)
South Bend Bamboo Rods:
– South Bend (founded in the early 1900s) was known for affordable yet well-made bamboo rods.
– Models like the South Bend 59, 323, or Cross series were popular.
– Their rods often had a medium to slow action, typical of bamboo.
Horrocks-Ibbotson (H-I) Bamboo Rods:
– H-I was another major player, producing rods like the Tonka Queen, Tonka Prince, and Featherweight.
– Their rods were sometimes considered “workhorses”—durable but not as refined as higher-end makers like Granger or Leonard.
What to Look For (If Buying/Restoring):
1. Condition: Check for delamination, cracks, or loose ferrules.
2. Originality: Look for intact wraps, original guides, and decals.
3. Action: A 7-8 WT bamboo rod will be slower than graphite but powerful for its era.
4. Value: Depending on model and condition, these rods can range from $100–$500+ (rarer models or mint condition fetch more).
Would you like help identifying a specific model or assessing a rod you have? If so, photos or additional markings would help!
(Note: Modern bamboo rod makers like Winston, Sweetgrass, or Thomas & Thomas still produce premium rods, but vintage South Bend and H-I rods have a nostalgic appeal.)