A Swell Idea: Breathing New Life Into Vintage Tapers

Some folks describe bamboo fly rods as “noodles,” “heavy,” etc.. The idea of using a bamboo fly rod is then filed in the back of their minds behind a shut door. This is a very poor understanding of bamboo and the myriad of associated tapers. 

In my opinion, there is nothing better than bamboo. It can be used in almost any fishing situation, and makers have complete control over the entire taper. While many vintage tapers have a reputation of being “noodles” or “heavy,” our current building options allow for all sorts of adjustments that were not always used. Over time, techniques of heat treating (E.W. Edwards), hollowing (Powell) and creating a swell in the butt section have dramatically impacted rod action. Indeed, while some early vintage tapers may leave some feeling like their rods are overcooked spaghetti, a maker can breathe new life into these tapers by experimenting with heat, hollowing and swells, thereby making al dente spaghetti.