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I think it is fair to say that fly fishing with bamboo and building bamboo fly rods are paths less traveled. For those of us who gravitate toward such paths, we often find meaning in places others ignore, especially in a world where immediacy and excess are rewarded. My December was defined by the “path less traveled.” Fly fishing both a first-rate tailwater and abundant small streams, I’m fortunate to have options. High flows plagued my tailwater, and as such, I found myself finishing off the year fly fishing some great small streams. One of my favorite aspects of small stream fishing is never knowing where you will end up. December was marked with exploration, as I ventured up named small streams to unnamed first- and second-order tributaries. A fun time being embedded deep in nature. On the building side of things, I commenced work on a less common rod type: a five-sided or “penta” rod. I really like pentas. They are unique and often misunderstood. They require less glue, flex in the cane as opposed to in a glue line, and can bring about some additional power. I also very much like the look of spiral node staggering on an aggressively flamed rod. It can be hypnotic. Of course, it really comes down to the taper, not the number of strips. This particular rod is being designed as a “tailwater” rod, capable of delicate presentations to selective wild trout, but with sufficient backbone to handle a multitude of conditions. A possible resolution for the new year: Consider taking the long way home. It may be filled with wonderful surprises.
 Pencil sketch by Michael D. Day A wonderful book discussing the life and bamboo rod building of Gary Howells. Beelart provides an incredible amount of detail concerning Howells’ life, his correspondence with others and his secretive and fastidious building techniques. Howells was so guarded that only a handful of people were allowed a small glimpse into his building world.
Undoubtedly, Howells made incredible rods for the discerning bamboo fly angler, and his work influenced many. After Howells passed, Robert K. Bolt purchased his rod shop and uses some of his equipment to this day. As such, Howells lives on. While gregarious in some ways, many of his building techniques went with him when he passed. Some historical bamboo rod makers were great builders and others were great leaders by promoting the craft. (A small minority bridged both camps.) I’d argue that Howells fell more into the former category. There is no denying, however, that Howells focus and commitment to the craft of bamboo rod building was unparalleled. He never wavered. He remained steadfast in his determination, and in this respect, he provided one of his most important secrets of building: focus. |
