The Traditional Fisherman's Forum

Hi all - I have a Fosters rod which I haven't been able to identify. It is a 12 foot, three section rod with a spare top section which matches but (going by the tip ring) looks a little bit younger than the rest. The older top section has lots of additional whipping, presumably for repairs or reinforcement. No transfers or inscribed name or any sign that there ever was one. Lots of photos attached.. Hoping that the collective wisdom of TFF will be able to help!

A steel centered salmon fly rod, I have a two piece. I used it once, my arms never been the same :-)

Definitely a Salmon Fly Rod . Someone may have a catalogue that can throw some light on its identity?

Have you asked Stephen Woolley? https://bamboorod.wixsite.com/woolleysofashbourne (Edit).
Way, way before his time at Fosters (!), but he may know something.
Mike

Barbelbonce wrote: ↑Sat Aug 07, 2021 4:58 pm Have you asked Stephen Woolley? https://bamboorod.wixsite.com/woolleysofashbourne (Edit).
Way, way before his time at Fosters (!), but he may know something.
Mike

I'll ask him - thanks!

I had that on a Watch list - but decided the steel centre would make it too heavy unless converted to a shorter length say 9-10ft and then sat in a rod rest for pike.

Olly wrote: ↑Sun Aug 08, 2021 11:13 am I had that on a Watch list - but decided the steel centre would make it too heavy unless converted to a shorter length say 9-10ft and then sat in a rod rest for pike.

I've just weighed it out of curiosity - 492g all in.

17.4 ounces......

I once had the idea of fishing with an 18ft Hardy Kelson steel centred salmon fly rod. This was on opening day at Formark. I gave up after about 10 minutes.

Jeremy Gill wrote: ↑Sat Aug 07, 2021 5:16 pm

Barbelbonce wrote: ↑Sat Aug 07, 2021 4:58 pm Have you asked Stephen Woolley? https://bamboorod.wixsite.com/woolleysofashbourne (Edit).
Way, way before his time at Fosters (!), but he may know something.
Mike

I'll ask him - thanks!

I contacted Steve and he confirmed it as an early salmon fly rod with locking ferrules, probably from the early 1900s