I have 2 split cane rods - bought out of curiosity; neither are collector's items as far as I am aware but and interesting experience to fish with. One is a 7ft (now 6'9" after an accident) called "The Colonel" and is in an Allcock's bag. The other is a 9ft 3 piece (with spare tip) called "The Astoria" and bares the maker's or vendor's mark "S.C.Fraser / Vancouver".

The latter in particular is a delight to fish with a 4 wt line for dry fly in still weather - certainly forces relaxation but handles fish well. The Colonel gets used on a local brook called the Conder.

Would like to know if anyone has come across these before, knows anything abut them (age etc). Just like to know a little bit more about what I'm using.
Thanks
GD

Re The Colonel - could be Alcocks but I favour Milwards - 1950s.

Don't know the other.

I recall this was in the Allcock's 1963 catalogue.
Rusty

Sorry, I was thinking of this one which is certainly not the one you mention GD. Rusty is probably right.

"SOLD Milwards 1955c ‘The Colonel.’ 11’0” /3 Important Avocet-type rod. Whole cane butt, s/c middle and top. Close whipped in claret silk. Long handle. Agate tip and butt. Low bells inters. Fully restored to perfection. Perfect chub/barbel/tench rod. £385".

There are still, or rather were a few years ago split cane rods made by a "colonel Obourne" doubtfull if its one of his though as they were mainly lake rods produced for Blagdon. From memory, they were beautifully made rods with exceptional casting capapbilites.