The Traditional Fisherman's Forum

I have just been given a 2-section split cane fly rod manufactured by A.E. Rudge and son, Unity Works, Redditch. It is about 8 feet long and I have used it once and it seemed to throw a D/T floating #4 line rather well. Rather pleasingly, I caught a trout on it - on a dry fly too. It has what I think reads: "The Prince" written just above the handle. The butt ring and tip are lined, the rest are unlined. The whippimgs are in maroon silk. Does anyone know when these rods were made? I'm guessing 1950s or 60s. I would love to know how old the rod is. Also any tips for cleaning it, storing it, and looking after it? I think it is in original and very good usable condition. Thanks, Rob

I can't enlighten you Rob but every keen river fly angler should have at least one 8ft #4/5 in cane It's at about this length and line weight that a good cane rod really excels Initial cleaning with a damp cloth, always store with sections uppermost, completely dry and in a bag hanging on a nail/peg in a safe corner away from daylight and heat. Transport in a stiff tube and beware car doors, tailgates and excitable dogs etc!

I have one and it's a wonderful fly rod. I was gifted mine by a late friend some time back and it was repaired by Wal, owing to a broken handle. I've got several other cane fly rods and none have come close to the Prince.

Keep it hung somewhere cool and dry in its bag. I check all my rods before I go to the bank to see if they require any light varnish or theres any rubbing to the whipping.

Make sure to dry it out well before hanging it after a day on the river. Years of service await you.

Ps.. I don't know the date. 50's I'd expect.

Thanks for the replies Gents.