The Traditional Fisherman's Forum

Negotiations are complete, and next week I will become the custodian of perhaps the rarest rod I know of ... at least ... I've never even heard a whisper about such a rod before now. (I'm prepared to be shot down in flames, of course !!! )

I have purchased a B. James and Sons "Avocet," 11ft. 6in. 3 piece rod with a trumpet handle, whole cane butt section, and whipped in Dark Olive silk. It's in almost completely original condition, apart from the cherry agate butt guide having been replaced by Paul Cook who carefully matched silk. There is an early gold label reading 'Avocet' which scrolls diagonally across the whole cane. and beneath it is the B. James gold relief wrap around logo reading 'B James & Sons'.

What makes it so rare is that there is an additional original trumpet handle only, 16 inches in length with identical fittings, into which the middle and tip section fit (a la Chapman's 500/550) ... making a split cane rod of 9ft. 10in., and the vendor's opinion is that it's a 'special customer order.'

The rod comes in a typical B. James & Sons herringbone bag, which has four sections to accommodate the rod.

I'll post photos when they arrive with me ... and when my hands have stopped shaking.

That sounds like a good multi purpose tool. Well done Mal

Very very nice indeed and as you say two whole cane buts rare if not unique mike

Sounds fantastic, can't wait to see the pictures

That's such a good idea that I can't think why they didn't make it a standard option. Excellent find!

Wonderful Mal, but at this procurement rate you are going to need a bigger man cave!

Nice Mal, looking forward to the photo's

Rather than photos for now ... a video !!! (Forgive the artificial lighting)

Well done Mal, another extremely fine acquisition.

Funnily enough yesterday, I received a more modern version Avocet which I have bought myself, which needs new ferrules and while giving it the once over, the thought did cross my mind about a separate handle for the top two joints, then you go and post this, spooky or what.

Wal.

A lovely and very interesting combination rod Mal, well done! I had the pleasure of "Waggling" an early "Built to Endure" Avocet? when I met up on Tuesday with "Stour Otter", I am not sure of the respective ages of the rods, but they are certainly special, and valuable!