fly fishing rods brands

Scott A3 1108/4 Double Handed Fly Fishing Rod

The Scott A3 1108/4 is a double-handed (spey) fly rod designed for two-handed casting techniques, commonly used in spey or switch fishing for salmon, steelhead, and other large migratory fish. Here’s a breakdown of its key features:

Specifications & Features:
– Model: Scott A3 1108/4
– Length: 11 feet (double-handed/spey rod)
– Line Weight: 8-weight (designed for 8-wt spey lines)
– Pieces: 4-piece (travel-friendly)
– Action: Likely moderate-fast (typical for spey rods, balancing power and finesse)
– Material: Graphite composite (Scott’s A3 series is known for affordability without sacrificing performance)
– Designed For: Spey casting, switch casting, large rivers, and big fish

Best Uses:
– Target Species: Atlantic salmon, Pacific steelhead, large trout, sea-run fish
– Line Compatibility: Scandi, Skagit, or traditional spey lines (depending on casting style)
– Environments: Big rivers with long casting needs (e.g., Pacific Northwest, Scotland, Scandinavia)

Scott A3 1108/4 Double Handed Fly Fishing Rod

Why Choose the Scott A3 1108/4?
– Affordable Spey Option: The A3 series is Scott’s budget-friendly line, offering solid performance without the premium price of their higher-end rods (e.g., Scott Sector or G Series).
– Versatility: Works well for both beginners and intermediate spey casters.
– Durability: Scott rods are known for high-quality construction.

Alternatives to Consider:
– Scott Sector (higher-end, faster action)
– Sage Foundation or Sage R8 Spey
– Redington Chromer (budget-friendly)
– Orvis Clearwater Spey

Final Thoughts:
If you’re looking for a reliable, mid-priced spey rod for steelhead or salmon, the Scott A3 1108/4 is a solid choice. It balances performance and affordability, making it great for anglers stepping into two-handed casting.

Would you like recommendations on lines, reels, or setups to pair with this rod?
The Scott A3 1108/4 is a double-handed (spey) fly rod designed for two-handed casting techniques, making it ideal for larger rivers, steelhead, salmon, and other anadromous fish. Here’s what you need to know about this rod:

Key Features:
– Model: A3 1108/4 (11′ 8″ length, 4-piece construction)
– Line Weight: Likely an 8-weight (common for steelhead/salmon spey rods)
– Action: Medium-fast to fast (Scott rods typically balance power and finesse)
– Material: High-modulus graphite (lightweight yet powerful)
– Designed For: Spey casting, switch casting, and long-distance presentations

Best Uses:
– Steelhead & Salmon Fishing – Ideal for swinging flies in big rivers.
– Spey & Switch Casting – Optimized for two-handed techniques.
– Versatility – Can handle sink tips, floating lines, and larger flies.

Why Choose the Scott A3 Series?
– Durable & Lightweight – Scott’s reputation for high-quality graphite construction.
– Smooth Casting – Designed for effortless spey casts with good line control.
– Travel-Friendly – 4-piece breakdown makes it easy to transport.

Potential Alternatives:
– Scott Sector (higher-end spey rod)
– Sage Igniter/Foundation (comparable performance)
– Orvis Clearwater Spey (budget-friendly option)

Final Thoughts:
The Scott A3 1108/4 is a solid choice for anglers targeting steelhead or salmon with two-handed techniques. If you need confirmation on the exact line weight or preferred grain window, checking Scott’s archives or contacting their customer service would help (some A3 models vary slightly).

Would you like recommendations for matching lines or reels?

Rare vintage Olivers of Knebworth (The Wye) 13ft fibreglass fly rod+ bag

The Olivers of Knebworth “The Wye” 13ft fibreglass fly rod is a rare and collectible vintage fishing rod, particularly sought after by enthusiasts of classic tackle. Here’s what you should know about it:

Key Features & Background:
1. Maker:
– Olivers of Knebworth was a well-regarded British tackle shop and rod maker based in Knebworth, Hertfordshire, active in the mid-20th century.
– They produced high-quality rods, often under their own name or for other retailers.

2. Model: “The Wye”
– Named after the River Wye, a famous UK salmon and trout fishing destination.
– Designed for fly fishing, likely optimized for larger rivers or double-handed casting due to its 13ft length.

3. Material: Fibreglass
– Early fibreglass rods (1950s–1970s) were revolutionary before graphite took over.
– Fibreglass rods are slower-actioned, making them forgiving and enjoyable for traditional angling.

4. Length: 13ft
– Suggests a double-handed/spey rod for salmon/sea trout or long-range trout fishing.
– Less common than shorter fly rods, adding to its rarity.

5. Included Bag:
– Original bags or tubes significantly increase collectibility.

Collectibility & Value:
– Rarity: Olivers rods are uncommon, especially with model names like “The Wye.”

Rare vintage  Olivers of Knebworth (The Wye) 13ft fibreglass fly rod+ bag

– Demand: Vintage fibreglass rods have a niche following; salmon/sea trout models attract higher interest.
– Condition Matters: Check for:
– Cork handle integrity
– Guide (eye) condition (no rust/missing inserts)
– Rod tip (any breaks or repairs?)
– Original bag/tube (adds 20–30% value)

Estimated Value (2024):
– Good Condition: £150–£300 ($200–$400)
– Mint/Unused: Up to £500+ (if rare and sought-after)
– With Provenance: Higher if tied to a famous angler or maker history.

Where to Sell/Research:
– Specialist Auctions: Angling auctions (e.g., Mullocks, Gardiner Houlgate in the UK).
– Forums/Groups: Facebook’s Vintage Fishing Tackle or The Classic Fly Rod Forum.
– eBay (UK): Search sold listings for “Olivers Knebworth rod” to compare.

Restoration Tips:
– Clean with mild soap/water; avoid harsh chemicals.
– Re-wrap loose guides with vintage-style thread (if experienced).
– Preserve original components—collectors prefer untouched rods.

If you’re looking to sell or verify authenticity, consider consulting a vintage tackle dealer like Gary Mills (Classic Fishing Tackle) or Roger Still (Stillwater Books).

Would you like help identifying any markings or labels on the rod?