Custom Fly Rods

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H. L. Gum - Maker
Bamboo Fly Rod Construction and Restoration
At the foothills of the Cascade Range

541.223.1182

Who is H.L. Gum - Maker

I started fly fishing in 1960 when my grandfather introduced me to fly fishing and gave me a bamboo rod to learn the "graceful" art. This was a rod that was issued to the military during WWII as a survival tool, and I was determined to learn. I advanced through many tree and bush strikes until I felt, at that age (12) "expert". Grampa suggested a newer rod would help and we decided to get my first new rod...later I felt that bamboo rods are far superior, with a distinctly delicate feel, to a fiberglass rod. Hence the learning and collection of information began. And here 41 yrs. later I still enjoy playing with those bamboo creations. I Have a proven methodology that gives the finished rod a lustrous lifelong finish that I am proud to pass on to others. I won't bore you with a variety of past photos, because the new rod will be a unique one of a kind, numbered and signed. My background in Quality control is evidenced as it continues through to my creations. When people buy a custom rod they spend according to their faith in getting the value they paid for. I can honor that belief...Hal

Restoration To Original Specifications

Restoration and/or repair of the classic rods is a great pleasure due to the research and duplication of the works of art that passed before. The sometimes intricate patterns or OEM parts provide, at times, a treasure hunt for original components. Pricing is dependant on the extent of restoration and repair and availability of parts.

Custom Rod Options

Here are some things to consider when ordering a custom built rod. The price of a rod will increase as options are added. This doesn't mean that a single tip rod with a satin finish is of a lower quality than a rod with two tips, full intermediate wraps and a hand rubbed varnish finish; it costs less only because it takes less time to complete. Every rod receives the same workmanship and attention to detail.

Tapers
In addition to my own compound tapers, I have collected more than 200 classic rod tapers. These tapers range from parabolic dry fly rods by Paul Young and Pezon et Michele, to powerful salmon rods by Dickerson and Gillum. If you are looking to retire your favorite rod and replace it with one of the same action, I will be happy to duplicate the taper.

Finishes
All rods are available with two types of finishes, a surface impregnated satin finish or a polished spar varnish finish. The satin finish is extremely durable. Since this finish is inside the cane, it is less likely to show signs of wear, but it doesn't match the traditional beauty of hand rubbed spar varnish.

Grips
A grip should fit the rod as well as your hand. A grip that is too small can make a rod feel heavy and awkward. A grip that is too large can make a delicate midge rod feel like a swizzle stick.

Reel Seats
The combinations are almost endless; up locking, down locking, sliding bands, cap and ring, bright, blued, black, zebra wood, maple burl, cocabola, cork, walnut. A seat should hold the reel securely to the rod, after that it's purely aesthetic.

Silk
There are as many choices when it comes to choosing the color of the wraps as there are in choosing a reel seat. I like tans and browns that blend in with the color of the cane, you may prefer Chinese Red or Emerald Green.

Guides
Rods meant to cast modern fly lines need to have slightly larger guides than those meant to cast silk lines. Black guides always look good on a cane rod, but you may choose bright chrome, titanium blue or even gold. If you are after a truly classic look, how about bronzed British twist snake guides and a red agate stripping guide.

Custom Builds dependant on your specifications

Custom bamboo fly rods built to your specifications. If you have a special taper I can accommodate your request. Using your configuration and color choices I will create a rod you'll be proud to own. All hand-wrapped and finished to produce a very unique one of a kind rod. Many satisfied and returning clients attest to the quality and affordability of my creations.

Rod Prices

Option	Rods to 7'6"	Rods 7'7" to 9'
Single tip rod w ith satin finish	$675.00	$695.00
Second tip add	$225.00	$250.00
3 piece rods add	$ 75.00	$ 75.00
4 piece rods add	$125.00	$125.00
Trim wraps add*	$ 50.00	$ 75.00
Hand rubbed varnish finish add*	$150.00	$150.00
Intermediate wraps add*	$200.00	$250.00

*Price for single tip rod, add 50% for rods w ith 2 tips
Please feel free to call for information on other options.

All rods shipped with rod sock and aluminum case.