Rod Collection

[moosehunter]

A friend of mine's father recently passed and he was left with a collection of rods. He may keep a few but probably will sell most of them. About 10. Some of them are vintage bamboo rods from the 1950's by orvis, Scott, rl Winston etc. Any thoughts on collectors which may purchase rods in bulk? Any idea how he can value his collection?

 

[Rolf]

You may want to talk to a professional. Assuming the rods are in decent shape, some may be worth some serious money, (Winston, Scott). Unless you plan on doing this in person, some good photos and an accurate description of each rod is essential for both your friend and the person you are asking an appraisal from. This is a link to the Classic Tackle Board, (Formerly Clark’s) and their guide to the information you should supply. It may be worth posting there just to get some opinions.

http://clarksclassicflyrodforum.yuku.com/topic/2722/Before-You-Ask-For-An-Appraisal#.TgHAhFvSycU

While this seems like a lot of work, once again, it may be worth the effort. There are some dealers who are also happy to help. Some of these will buy the complete collection outright, usually for 80% of the perceived value, while others will sell them on consignment, typically getting 15% of the selling price. This actually isn’t a bad deal as they catalog the rods, provide decent description, photograph the rods and advertise to a larger market. Certainly not all but a few places to start are the following. Given the size of the collection and potential value, I would get more than one opinion.

http://www.codella.com/

http://www.classicflyfisherman.com/

Carmine Lisella
Jordan-Mills Rod Co.
#4 Hidden Ridge lane
New City, NY 10956
Phone: 845-639-7630
E-mail: clisella@aol.com

Good luck and I wish your friend well.

Rolf

 

[bikerfish]

I'll second what rolf said, contact the right people, he may have some big money there.

 

[Tiltaxp]

I'd say look to put them on consignment in a shop that does a lot with bamboo. They will get you the information needed and sell it for top dollar, the more you get, the more they get. Good luck

 

[whheff]

Rolf is big into bamboo. I would do what he said. Some of these rods could be worth big money.

 

[gfen]

Before I even read the first response, my thought was to direct you to Clark's. They'll want ample pictures, but its free advise and they really know their stuff.

 

[bikerfish]

or tell him nobody wants them old wood fishin poles anymore and offer to take them off his hands! nothin but old junk, go get a graphite stick for goodness sakes!!
just kidding!
if you could, let us know how your buddy does with everything.
good luck to him!