South Bend #53

Bruno

Bruno

Well-known member
Joined
Sep 10, 2006
Messages
2,359
I picked up a South Bend #53 for 60 bucks. Looks like it has been fished a couple of times.

Other than that I don't know jack about the rod. Anyone know anything about this rod?
 
try these guys best any where.http://fiberglassflyrodders.yuku.com/
 
south bend 53, looked it up in one of my books, they made a model 53 in 1949, cost 35 bucks new, meaning it was a top of the line rod back then.
I have some more books to look through, I'll keep ya posted what I find. haven't found what line it is yet.
both the classic forum and the fiberglass flyrodders are good sources.
fiberglass site is my 2nd favorite to this one, those guys know their stuff, not just glass rods.
now ya gotta get a classic reel on that thing!!
 
bruno, after seeing your pics on the classic board, appears to be a little later made, looks like a red anodized reel seat, maybe late 50s into the 60s. not sure. I'm sure those guys will let ya know. being a 9ft, it will probably cast nice with a dt6 or 7, but try it with as many lines as you can till you find it's sweet spot, you'll know when you find it!!
 
Thanks Guys.

Here is a link to the pics/ post if you have an interest. Looks like a nice site



http://classicflyrodforum.com/topic/32771
 
I have a SB 359 I fish alot, nice rod, but it takes awhile to get used to that grip!! does yours have the thumb notch? feels goofy at first, but after the first fish, I never notice it!
 
Yes it does have the thumb grip, I put a line on it this evening and snow casted. I kinda liked the grip.
 
snow casting!!LOL I love the looks my neighbors give me when I do that!
if you've never fished a boo rod before, it will be vastly different from todays ultra lightweight and lightning fast graphite rods. once(if??) you get used to it, they make wonderful and very versitile fishing tools. you might be surprised how strong they are when fighting fish.
you and jack can go shopping for tweed together!!
 
Very cool Bruno. I like it!

Here is a spot I've used a considerable amount over the past 2 months...however yours isn't on there, but it give background info.

http://home.myfairpoint.net/and96jac/fishnbanjossliceoflifeincyberspacecopy/index.html

I just stripped my first one last night. Can't wait for this weather to break to get them on the stream!
 
Bruno wrote:
Thanks Guys.

Here is a link to the pics/ post if you have an interest. Looks like a nice site



http://classicflyrodforum.com/topic/32771

Bruno do you have a photo of the decal? Check out your link. Does it say anything such as HDH or HEH?

Thanks,
Rolf
 
The only information I have on the South Bend #53 built around 1949 and the price for that year was 35.00. It was Natural cane, Stainless Steel (stripper), Tool Hardened Steel (snake guides), perfection Tip top and the grip is a comficient style. The 53 was a South Bend fast action rod or a Bass rod. I would see how a 7 or 8 weight line would perform. But I would not be surprised if a 6 wt bass taper line worked out better .

Joe E
 
I believe it is a Yellow Label with Red Lettering.

Thanks for all the info.
 
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