hi everyone-I have the above in storage and as it's not been used for probably 30 years I am thinking of letting it go but I have absolutely no idea what it's worth.It's used, but in good condition with a few superficial marks as one would expect.Some assistance here would be greatly appreciated.Regards Richard.

Hi richard,

I know this is a bit late on the answer but I actually havn't really ever looked in this thread even though I restore hardys tackle. The Pope Dry Fly rod was produced from 1899 all the way through to 1970 (making it one of the longest running rods in production [albeit a very spontatious production at that!])
It was a "double split cane" as the catalogues used to describe it, 2 piece 10' rod and could be used with #5-#7ish line. Its rod rings went through the usually adaption over their progressive patents. Ending up with the Bridge rings very quickly.

Price wise, as I see you want to sell yours. Well Richard, as with all vintage equipment. The pounds shillings and pence depend on who wants it and who is looking for one. I have seen Popes (later 50s) sell close to £150 but this was a fine example in good nick! The most recent I can find on ebay.co.uk, though, sold for £35(inc p+p) but this had a bow in the top section. Something not much can be done about and although doesn't stop you from using a rod (as I do) it does reduce its aesthetic & subsequently price. Still these rods can look rather good hung up when they have a bow in them!

To be honest Richard, the most Popes I have seen sell for around £70 and I would think that this is a reasonable price for one with a bit of wear over the years but no structural damage.

They are lovely rods and I have fished one a few years ago with a #4 DT silk line, it just makes you loops seem more pro Ha . Think I got 2 brownies and a Sea trout on it that day, to test it after a like TLC was asked to be put into the varnish by a friend. He doesn't use it much, as he doesn't fish much and when he does he sadly uses newer rods- but he is an ole fella and the weight with the Pope is the most dicouraging thing.


On an up note, and lastly (sorry to waffle) +9'6" rods are very poppular at the moment and people want them, like me, so if you have a single hander above 9 foot 6 and you want to sell it, fingers crossed it gets the attention it deserves.

regards

Umbra Abus

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'The French value the umber or grayling so highly that they say he feeds on gold.' - Izaak Walton: The Compleat Angler