Napolitano bamboo fly rod arrived

[WB]

My 7’ 6” “Napolitano Bamboo Fly Rod” arrived. With all due respect to the rod makers of yesteryear, I must say that I think the best work in rod making is happening today. This rod is gorgeous!! I asked Mr. Napolitano to make a 7’6” with a dry fly action. Upon ordering the rod, and having a choice between Natural and Flamed Bamboo, I chose the latter. He suggested that using Flamed Cane would benefit a crisp action. Two other rods that I own are both Naturals and I wanted to try something a little different. The dark gunmetal finish of the nickel silver components, complement the guide wraps and rod with its beautiful glass like finish. Mr. Napolitano is an easy person to do business with. His workmanship is impeccable and his attention to detail highlights his rods.

I spent an hour lawn casting, really snow casting, this magnificent piece of art. The action is responsive and the rod casts effortlessly. With a small piece of yarn attached to the leader I could cast to a target with great accuracy. The final test, Yes, it can really shoot line! I look forward for warmer weather and the first Mayfly hatch.

Think Spring

 

[Andre]

WB, Congratulations, I got a new Payne 101 taper from David Van Burgel this year and there's something about a brand new cane rod. I have rods from the old masters, FE thomas, Granger and there pretty magical too. Enjoy. Andre

 

[Unregistered]

Are you looking to seel any Bamboo Rods Andre?

 

[Andre]

I'm going to assume that's sell. I do have a 8.5ft, 5wt, 4.5 oz, Amherst Rod Company "Berkshire" model. This rod has been redone and looks great and comes with 1 tip. Amherst rods are considered mid- grade rods according to Campbell's books. He rates them as better than Montague but not as good as an FE Thomas. In my ming that makes them equal to a Heddon or Granger. again beautiful rod and great casting rod. $200.00.

 

[WB]

Thank You Andrea,

I am really excited. In my arsenal, I have a Howells rod that I purchased from Gary before his death and a Carpenter from Walt when he worked for Payne. Although both of these rods are fine, I must tell you that this Napolitano knocks the socks off of them both. I had been extremely disappointed and could not find the action that I was looking for in Bamboo until now. I had refused to buy another Cane rod until the day that I tried one of Mr. Napolitano’s Rods. A wise decision! It sounds as if you have a nice Bamboo collection also. Once you own a Bamboo Fly Rod your hooked.

 

[Andre]

WB, Don't have any Howell's or Carpenter's. Your right though, rods can be made by the best of craftsman but if they don't meet your casting style they only look good but have little utility.