The Shop
It all starts in the shop - whether crafting a new custom fly rod, restoring an old classic, performing minor repairs, or just talking fly fishing.
New components arrive weekly and Dave has an inventory control system to insure a prompt response to orders. When restorations and repairs arrive, he performs a triage diagnostic with the results sent to the owner.
For new rods, assembly is conducted at several different stations and it is not uncommon for several rods to be in different stages at the same time. Finish work is conducted in a separate "clean room." He welcomes visitors to stop by and talk roddin' and is happy to help aspiring rod builders learn the ropes. It is special when Dave's twin granddaughters stop by the shop to watch - just like Dave did with his grandfather many years ago in Kentucky.
It all starts in the shop - whether crafting a new custom fly rod, restoring an old classic, performing minor repairs, or just talking fly fishing.
New components arrive weekly and Dave has an inventory control system to insure a prompt response to orders. When restorations and repairs arrive, he performs a triage diagnostic with the results sent to the owner.
For new rods, assembly is conducted at several different stations and it is not uncommon for several rods to be in different stages at the same time. Finish work is conducted in a separate "clean room." He welcomes visitors to stop by and talk roddin' and is happy to help aspiring rod builders learn the ropes. It is special when Dave's twin granddaughters stop by the shop to watch - just like Dave did with his grandfather many years ago in Kentucky.
New Bamboo Fly Rods
Since 1999, Dave has fulfilled custom fly rod orders. He believes to be called a "custom rod" it must be customized to a particular buyer. Superior quality components are used with unlimited options for custom orders. Blanks used are of superior quality Tonkin bamboo, aged and heat treated, with close inspection throughout the entire process. Man-O-War marine spar varnish is used exclusively on his rods. Rods come in a cloth bag in a waterproof metal tube, along with a certificate of original ownership and additional documentation for custom orders.
A multitude of rod tapers are available - his most requested models include:
Dave also has a collegiate service and can wrap rods in college colors with the correct NCAA licensed decal. Contact Dave for additional information and pricing.
Since 1999, Dave has fulfilled custom fly rod orders. He believes to be called a "custom rod" it must be customized to a particular buyer. Superior quality components are used with unlimited options for custom orders. Blanks used are of superior quality Tonkin bamboo, aged and heat treated, with close inspection throughout the entire process. Man-O-War marine spar varnish is used exclusively on his rods. Rods come in a cloth bag in a waterproof metal tube, along with a certificate of original ownership and additional documentation for custom orders.
A multitude of rod tapers are available - his most requested models include:
- 6' - 3 weight : The Little Gem and Green Drake
- 6' 6" - 3 weight : The Little Gem and Double L
- 7' - 4 weight : The Top Gem and Bud's Favorite
- 7' 6" - 5 weight : The Premier and Diamond Special
Dave also has a collegiate service and can wrap rods in college colors with the correct NCAA licensed decal. Contact Dave for additional information and pricing.
Restoration and Repair
Over the years, Dave has restored and/or repaired thousands of bamboo fly rods and has seen most all production rods as well as rods of many classic fly rod builders. It all started when he found his grandfather's Payne in 1983. Rods regularly arrive at the shop for analysis, and Dave offers complete rod restoration, refinishing and repair. If interested in a triage diagnostic on a rod, contact Dave for detailed restoration and repair information.
Over the years, Dave has restored and/or repaired thousands of bamboo fly rods and has seen most all production rods as well as rods of many classic fly rod builders. It all started when he found his grandfather's Payne in 1983. Rods regularly arrive at the shop for analysis, and Dave offers complete rod restoration, refinishing and repair. If interested in a triage diagnostic on a rod, contact Dave for detailed restoration and repair information.
"It was my honor to build this special rod for you and it is my hope that this instant heirloom will be fished and passed on to future generations. Whether you are fishing with a friend, in a group, or enjoying the privacy of a beautiful day on an exceptional stream, may this rod accompany you on those journeys." From custom rod authentication 1999 to present.
