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Fly Fishing/Expert Profile

Michael Sinclair

U.S.

Available

Expertise

I can answer most questions regarding antique, collectible and fishable bamboo fly rods. I can also help with fishing tackle collectibles in general; rods, reels, lures, gadgets and accessories used by fishermen of yesteryear. I can't answer every question, but I can direct those to experts in each field.

Experience in the area

I have about 30 years of experience in collecting, restoring and using vintage split bamboo fly rods. I have also written four books about the history of some of the makers of bamboo fly rods and one book about restoring old rods to their original condition. I really like sharing my enthusiasm for these old rods and helping others learn as much as possible about their old rods. I can give reliable information about the maker and value of most vintage rods, reels and lures. I have restored antique fishing rods for over 25 years and recently began making bamboo rods.

Publications

Bamboo Fly Rod Magazine NFLCC Gazette (National Fishing Lure Collectors Club) Fly Rod & Reel Classic Chronicle (Classic Fishing Tackle Newsletter)

Education/Credentials

LSU BA History 1973

What do you like about this subject?

I love fly fishing and history - studying vintage tackle is a blend of the two.

Average Ratings

Recent Reviews from Users

User	Date	K	C	T	P	Comments
Chris	11/12/09	10	10	10	10	This was my first experience with your .....

Recent Answers from Michael Sinclair

2009-11-10 winston fly rods:

Hello Chris, Winston rods have been around for a long, long time. The value depends upon the model, condition and the era in which they were made. The best place to get an idea - and perhaps some

2009-09-22 phillipson fly rod:

Phillipson was a Denver rodmaker from about 1945 until 1960. The impregnated rods were initiated in about 1952. John Johnson was probably the name of the original owner which was often applied at the factory

2009-09-01 Montague Rapidan Bamboo 9ft fly rod:

Hello Gretchen, Your Montague rod is one of the most common models from the most prolific maker of bamboo rods. If all sections are of equal length, it has moderate collectible value, probably in the

2009-07-14 wright and mcgill rod:

Hello Dave, Your rod was made between 1947 and about 1952. It is essentially a Wright & McGill Granger rod, as it has the same reel seat, grip , bamboo and rod taper as the Granger rods. It was NOT

2009-06-06 Shakespear executive fly rod and case:

Hello Rick, Sorry for the delay in responding - been doing a little fishing. Shakespeare Wonderods have a loyal following among fiberglass rod afficianados. I don't know exactly what value they would

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