The Traditional Fisherman's Forum

I thought this guide might be of interest as it lists a number of cane rods that were available as kits in 1980 including the Richard Walker Mk 4's. My brother and I visited the shop in Hythe a number of times before they closed down in the early 80's and purchased various rod blanks, rings and materials - my brother lashed out £21.50 on a Mark 4 carp rod which he later built into a very fine rod. Trott.

Thanks for that Trottingshawe and welcome to the forum. :thumb:

That is interesting, Trott - truly the last gasp of split cane before its revival in the 1990s. One thing that's been puzzling me for a while - most seem to agree that the quality of the available tonkin cane from China went sharply into decline after the Second World War.

On the other hand, most also agree that some of the current cane rod builders are now producing rods of extremely high quality.

Is this because China is once again allowing high-quality cane to be exported to the West? Or for some other reason?

I'm still using my JB Walker MK4 that bought as a kit in late 60s. It has a significant droop but catches plenty of fish.

Old JBW catalogues appear on ebay from time to time for a reasonable price as do those of Olivers of Knebworth.

I have just added the 1977/78 catalogue to the top post, I purchased both catalogues a couple of weeks ago.

1964 :hat:

Deaf Cat wrote:1964 :hat:

Thank you Deaf Cat, I have moved your picture to the first post. :thumb:

Thanks to Churchill for the 1955, 1972 and 1982 pictures which are now added to the first post.

Here is a link to other interesting references etc again courtesy of Churchill.

http://vintageflyfishingtackleforsale.b ... ogues.html

Mark here are a few early ones missing ,the green book is 1951.On the back of 1961 and others is a picture of Richard Walkers Workshop, as you can see he always had a few rods on the go. note the stuffed perch on the wall,it was his favorite fish to work on.Could it be a large perch he caught at Arlesey.? it looks Big!!!