HARDY Fly Rod W FITTING REG 16ft8inch 3 pieces Fly Fishing
Bob Fournier The HARDY Fly Rod W FITTING REG 16ft 8in (3 pieces) is a vintage or classic fly fishing rod, likely designed for salmon or large trout fishing given its length. Here’s what you should know:
Key Features:
1. Length: 16 feet 8 inches (long rod, typical for two-handed/spey casting).
2. Construction: 3-piece design (portable but still long for traditional fly fishing).
3. Action/Weight: Likely a regular (REG) action—moderate to slow, suited for traditional wet fly or spey casting.
4. Fittings: “W Fitting” may refer to Winchester-style ferrules (common in older Hardy rods) or durable nickel-silver hardware.
5. Era: Possibly mid-20th century (Hardy rods from the 1950s–1970s often had similar specs).
Potential Uses:
– Spey/Salmon Fishing: Ideal for big rivers where long-distance casting is needed.
– Traditional Wet Fly Fishing: Suited for classic techniques like the “Greased Line” method.
Things to Check if Buying/Valuing:
1. Condition: Look for cracks, loose ferrules, or rod tip damage.
2. Originality: Ensure all sections match (length, guides, wraps).
3. Collectibility: Hardy rods from this era can be valuable if in good condition.
Modern Equivalent:
If you’re looking for a similar modern rod, consider:
– Hardy Marquis Salmon 10–12 (two-handed).
– Shakespeare Sigma Spey Rod (budget option).
Would you like help identifying its exact age or value? If so, photos of markings (serial numbers, labels) would help!