The Traditional Fisherman's Forum

For some time I have been looking at obtaining a longer traditional rod. I have a number between ten and eleven feet but these are not ideal on some of the rivers and drains I float-fish. Also, their actions tend to be suited more to tench, chub and perch: the main job of the rod I'm looking for would be catching roach. It would be coupled with a suitable centre-pin, of course.

I have handled a rod made of Spanish reed and it was remarkably light - a bonus when float-fishing baits off the bottom. I would much appreciate the thoughts of those who know about 'The Expert', with the advantages and perhaps disadvantages of one for the purpose I have in mind. And any alternative suggestions would be very welcome.

Have a look at the Aspindales is my advice. At 12’ the MK2 Avon is wonderful. Alternatively, the Silverdale at 12’ hollow built cane and Severndale at 13’ which is Spanish reed and then built cane. I have all three which would be perfect for your needs. More info on this page:

http://www.inthenetuk.com/pages/Vintage ... indale.asp

Edit: one word of caution is that the Silverdale needed looking after and can suffer from delamination if mistreated; so make sure you buy from a trusted source and inspect very carefully if you want to avoid having to glue it back together and an expensive rebuild thereafter!

Thank you, Tengisgol. I know nothing about Aspindale rods, having mainly Allcocks and Chapmans, but have enjoyed the link you sent - I will be going back there soon! The Severndale sounds very interesting. Is there a particular reason you would go for these rather than The Expert?

I have also visited your own pages this morning - very nice indeed. I have often thought of doing something similar myself. I am envious of your being a Sea Trout on the forum - my other favourite fish.

Milwards Featherlite is another fine rod the consider.
The 12 foot version is particularly nice to use.

Wal.

Wal, thank you for the suggestion, which I am already investigating. It's a while since I made a major purchase, so it's partly a question of finding out who is still in the business.

It is the Severndale - hollow built split cane. This is also the rod that can delaminate.

And the Silverdale - Spanish reed , etc.


http://www.inthenetuk.com/pages/Vintage ... indale.asp

Olly wrote: ↑Thu Feb 17, 2022 11:12 am It is the Severndale - hollow built split cane. This is also the rod that can delaminate.

And the Silverdale - Spanish reed , etc.


http://www.inthenetuk.com/pages/Vintage ... indale.asp

That’s it! I had them the wrong way around perhaps!

PM me for details - if your interested of course

Riparian wrote: ↑Thu Feb 17, 2022 9:56 am Thank you, Tengisgol. I know nothing about Aspindale rods, having mainly Allcocks and Chapmans, but have enjoyed the link you sent - I will be going back there soon! The Severndale sounds very interesting. Is there a particular reason you would go for these rather than The Expert?

To be honest, I don’t know the Hardy rod so I can’t comment but the Aspindales - if you can find a good one - are really excellent. Incidentally, I seem to consistently get the Silverdale and Severndale confused!

I have the Aspindale Avon, Avon 2, Severndale and Swiftdale. All nice rods but none used that often.

Looking at pictures of the Expert it is double spliced with Palakona(?) split cane tip - a roach rod for sure!