Will the real Powell please stand up
By KBarton10 on Mar 4, 2008 in Fly Fishing, product
I’ve been dabbling in background research into the eBay tackle phenomenon, noting that two or three rod companies were well represented, and others fit the traditional auction mode – someone finding some treasure while cleaning out Grandpa’s closet.
One of the companies that caught my eye was the Powell Rod Co, formerly of Chico, California. I owned a couple Powell graphite rods and had met both Walton and Press many years ago on Fall River.
It’s an old story, ”old world” craftsman meets well-to-do “SugarDaddy” with a gleam in his eye, the demise of fine rod company follows.
Being neither lawyer nor investigator, I don’t know what the truth is – but an interesting story from the 2001 Chico News & Review outlines the chronology of events from the Powell perspective.
The rods on eBay explained, they’re not the Powell’s that share their lineage with E.C Powell, Walton Powell, and his son Press – they’re the new company, run by the folks that purchased the firm from Charles Schwab.
I’ve worked at a half dozen fly shops in my youth, and ownership by rich patrons always ended badly. They might share some of our passion for the sport, but the tax writeoff is equally compelling.
In Japan, skilled artisans of bygone arts are designated as national treasures, and receive a stipend so that they can teach others. Perhaps that practice would be appropriate in the US as well.
Technorati Tags: Chico News & Review, Walton Powell, Press Powell, Charles Schwab, Powell Rod Company
Regan | Mar 5, 2008 | Reply
I’ve followed this for a while due to interest in the TiBoron II. I chose not to patronize the company, not so much because of the powell family thing or because of the direct sales cutting out fly shops, but because its becoming a BASS ROD company. Now I have nothing against bass fishermen or bass fishing or non-fly fishing fishing in general… Its loads of fun. I do have a problem with a company that slashes all their fly rod models so they have only one left and still try to profit off the name of one of the greatest fly rod makers in american fly fishing history. i think they should be forced to change their name to somethign that more accurately reflects the companies history. Like “Used to be powell, but now the flippin stick company called Bryan.” Its just a shame that they killed their fly rod department. They should hire back whatever powwell’s remain and really dive into the market. With that brand name in fly fishing they would do really well. I think the market is such now that people are a lot less likely to poo poo a company for overseas production if that’s what they’re worried about.
KBarton10 | Mar 5, 2008 | Reply
They had an awful lot of new rods on eBay, they must’ve decided to dump existing stock via online auction or jobber.
More 4 piece rods than a comprehensive collection, but plenty none the less.
Thanks for the update.
Sully | Mar 5, 2008 | Reply
Whether fashioned in cane, glass or graphite the Chico era Powells were great fly rods.
A few show up on E-Bay occasionally. A fellow in Canada is currently selling one of the green IM6’s. (My least favorite series, but Press Powell loved them)
To quote the ad- “I am selling it because I simply own too many rods (mostly Powells) and wasn’t using this one enough. A rod this nice should be fished!” He concludes, “I am looking for a good home for it-anyone who knows the original Powell rods knows why.” Well said, brother.
KBarton10 | Mar 5, 2008 | Reply
I had one in my hand and asked what line weight it was, “Oh, that’s a 5-6-7″ … none of this 9 foot 5 weight stuff, you could build your favorite bend by raising or lowering the line weight you threw.
It’s counter to what vendors are hawking now – especially on fly lines, specialization rules the day.
Great rods.
Don | Mar 7, 2008 | Reply
Eugene Powell, Walton’s grandson and E.C.’s great-grandson, is continuing the family bamboo rod building tradition.
I have a few “real” Powell rods and think they’re great.
Byron | May 20, 2008 | Reply
Ok Guy I recently came into what looks like a Walton Powell spinning rod. In a nice case. It is a 2 pc rood and its design, especially at teh connecting joint and the metal real seat look like something Walton Powell would have made. there is However a printed model number: FS-70. Can any of you guys help me identify weather this is a real Walton or just a Powell knockoff
Kbarton10 | May 20, 2008 | Reply
I’m not an expert, FS-70 would be a ‘fly-spin 7ft’ under the old fenwick nomenclature, you might want to post a picture on a free site and link to it here for others to eyeball.
Byron | May 20, 2008 | Reply
http://i20.ebayimg.com/01/i/000/f2/25/b276_1.JPG
http://i19.ebayimg.com/03/i/000/f2/25/a484_1.JPG
These are 2 pictures of the actual rod and its carrying case.
I hope this helps
KBarton10 | May 20, 2008 | Reply
The “Walton Powell” label looks like the real deal – on the surface it appears legitimate.
If the FS is “fly spin” then the rod would detach from the front of the grip and mount in the rear, making the reel seat closer to the end of the rod for mounting a fly reel.
Don’t grab and yank anything – there should be some sort of fitting that looks like it will loosen (so you can swap the blank to the other end of the grip) if it’s this style of combo rod.
Old rods can be fragile – visually inspect where the blank meets the handle to see if a dual purpose rod. You can inspect the butt cap to see if it is removable as well.
The case and rod are a bit too far away in the picture for me to offer much insight. Maybe one of the readers can assist more.
Byron | May 21, 2008 | Reply
http://i14.ebayimg.com/01/i/000/f2/25/cad8_1.JPG
this is the only other picture i could come across.
Steve | Jun 6, 2008 | Reply
I purchased several fly rods from a company who sold Powell (CHICO ERA) Fly Rods.. I have several that I HAVE TO sell due to finances.. I have some SS Series Brown Blank.. I have a couple of Deep Blue LG Series also.. These are (NEW) and never fished.. A couple of them were casted and liked by a fly shop owner.. I was not ready to sell him the rods then, but now I need to…
Sully | Jun 8, 2008 | Reply
Steve,
Couldn’t find any Powell rods on Craig’s List.
What up?
Steve | Jun 8, 2008 | Reply
Good Morning Sully,,
I’m sorry you didn’t see the add I had put in about Powell Fly Rods.. One of my posting was a few days ago, and listed about 8 different rods including at least a couple of the powell rods.. I have a 9′ 3-4 Weight 2 piece LG Deep Blue Blank rod. I have a 8’6 5 Weight SS Rod Rich dk Brown blank. I also have a 9′ 5 weight SS series brown blank. I also have a 8′ 4 weight SS series brown Rod. I also have a Lg Dk Blue 9’5 weight. These Rods Retailed for between $340.00 and $475.00 + I am needing around $195.00 each obo.. Scully Where are you located if you mind I ask.?? All of these Rods are (NEW) Never fished.. Casted a couple of time a couple of them on the grass is all…
Sully | Jun 8, 2008 | Reply
Steve,
By “SS” do you mean Signature Series?
If you have pictures of the reel seats on these it will tell the story.
I’ll buy the 8′ 4-wgt at $195 if it is a Signature Series.
Is the 9′ 5-wgt marked as a DF90-1 by any chance?
I’m in Missoula.
Steve | Jun 9, 2008 | Reply
Hi Sully, I looked at the powell rods today, and the one I thought was a 8′ 4 weight SS, is a 8’6 4 weight Signiture Series. The other 9′ 5 weight is a LG 905 2 piece dk Blue Beautiful Rod.. I have a LG 9′ 3-4 Weight Powell.. I also have a Signiture Series 8’6 5 weight Powell Rod. I also have a Signiture Series 9′ 5 Weight brown blank.. These are all (Chico Era) Rods and I personaly don’t want to sell them, but I need the money now.. I grew up near Chico, and I appreciate the Powell Legacy… Not the New Going Down Hill Swabbbb….
Chris | Jul 6, 2008 | Reply
I have a number of Powell fly rods. I had them sent to Australia several years ago. I am slightly confused about the demise of the Powell Co. Is there anyone from Powell (Chico, CA, where I purchased my rods) still making fly rods?
KBarton10 | Jul 7, 2008 | Reply
The Chico Fly Shop is still in business, and they’re advertising rods by Eugene Powell, see the below link:
http://www.chicoflyshopinc.com/products_bamboo.html
Tom McDonough | Jul 13, 2008 | Reply
I’d be interested in knowing if your Chico-era Powell rods are still available. I own a couple, and they’re honeys.
I looke forward to hearing from you.
Tom McDonough
Rich | Nov 11, 2008 | Reply
This thread had not been posted to in quite a while, but Tom, yes some are still available. I am from Chico originaly and I own a number of true Powell rods and I am quite knowledgeable about the history and values of the rods. I have bought and sold quite a few over the years. And I am friends with a man in Chico who built rods for the Powells from about 1983 to 1992 and now has his own rod company in Chico. His rods are fantastic and he holds the only reserve of original Powell bamboo blanks around. If anyone is still interested in talking Powell rods please let me know.
Rich
Rich | Nov 11, 2008 | Reply
By the way, if anyone here is interested in selling old Powell rods, please let me know. I am always interested in these wonderfull rods.
Rich
KBarton10 | Nov 11, 2008 | Reply
Rich,
What’s the fellow’s name that still crafts the rods in Chico – and does he have a web site?
I think folks might be interested.
Rich | Nov 11, 2008 | Reply
His name is Jim Clarkson and his website is http://www.raptorrodworks.com
He makes all kinds of rods, including a line which is in all but name the old Powell Light Touch series – very nice reasonably priced rods. And he is an all around good guy.
Rich
Steve | Nov 12, 2008 | Reply
Hi Rich, Hope life is treating you well, and your gettin in some fishin. I have 3 or 4 chico era, Signiture Series, LG Series, and Legacy Light Series Rods. They are the Chico Era, Pres Powell Era built around 1994 or so. One is a 9′ 5wt Signiture Series, another is a 9′ 3-4 wt LG deep blue Series, another a 8′ 4wt, Signiture Series, another a 8’5 5wt, Signiture Series, another 9’5 weight LG series deep blue blank, another is a 9’5wt Signiture Series, I think that’s all.. I need to sell all or some.. They are in original sock, aluminum cases and BRAND NEW.. Never Seen Water… I will probably sell them for $275.00 each.. They retailed orignially for between $350.00 and $450.00 … These Rods are PERFECT… Casted both 9′ weights and a friend who has a fly shop, who is very picky and said they casted very smooth, crisp, and was impressed. These are CHICO era NOT Swabb…
Steve | Nov 12, 2008 | Reply
I will post this for everyone since I sent it to rich only.. I have 4 or 5 Signiture Series, LG series, and Legacy Light series fly rods. These are Chico Era, built around 1994 or so. they are Beautiful Rods and I am going to have to sell them because of financial reasons. I have heard nothing but positive things about them.. Steve
Terrance Moore | Nov 12, 2008 | Reply
Am looking for a good Powell. Can you give me some info on yours. I am located in Sacramento if it isn’t too far away from you I will drive.
Terry
Rich | Nov 13, 2008 | Reply
Steve, please email me: gyro@suddenlink.net
We can talk more about those rods. Thanks,
Rich
Rich | Feb 22, 2009 | Reply
Just following up again…Steve are you still out there? Anyone else know how I might get ahold of Steve? Thanks,
Rich
Colin | Apr 20, 2009 | Reply
I finally located and purchased an original Chico-era Powell fly rod, which is a 9ft, 4-5 wt. LG series. Needless to say, I’m thrilled. However, I’m not sure what “LG” stands for. Any ideas?
Please and thanks.
-Colin
Sully | Apr 21, 2009 | Reply
Colin,
Congrats on scoring a wonderful fly rod.
LG probably stands for “Legacy”. That was one of their series back in the day.
Colin | Apr 21, 2009 | Reply
Thanks, Sully!
The rod is a beautiful sapphire blue, with green and red wraps. Absolutely gorgeous! As a Chico native, I witnessed the demise of the original Powell fly shop (off of West 8th Ave.) first hand. In fact, my parents bought me a Cortland fly kit there for my 13th birthday, and I’ve been “hooked” ever since. That was 15 years ago.
Is there anything else you can tell me about the rod I purchased? Is it made from the same IM6 graphite blanks as the LT (light touch) series? Also, I can’t find a signature on the rod. I wonder if it was made by Walton Powell, or perhaps his son, Press?
Any assistance you can provide would be very much appreciated.
Thanks again,
-Colin
Rich | Apr 22, 2009 | Reply
Colin – I’ve fished with that same model of rod and it is one of my all time favorites. The best way to tell if it is an “original” Powell or not is by the serial number on the base of the rod and the address on the label on the rod tube. Tell me what those are and I can tell you roughly when it was made.
Sully | Apr 22, 2009 | Reply
Colin,
Sounds like Rich has the inside information.
The Legacy series Powells I’m familiar with were from the mid-80s and brown in color. The blue blanks came a bit later. Every 9′ 5-weight Powell I’ve every thrown was a wonderful fishing instrument.
Rich,
What did Powell call the blue rods? Were they the first “Legacy Lites”?
Rich | Apr 22, 2009 | Reply
The Legacy rods were first made around 1989 and were finished in the same rootbeer brown as the signature series rods. These were also labeled “Legacy” not LG. In about 1991 they started finishing the Legacy rods in the cobalt blue. Around then they also went to the LG labeling. They changed the name to Legacy Light (but I believe retained the LG label) sometime later – it was change in name only for marketing purposes. The rods remained the same. The Legacy series were the fastest action rods the original Powell company ever made. I’m guesing Colin’s rod is labeled LG 9045. More acurately dating it would take the info I asked for in the earlier post. They are among my favorite rods ever – paticularly that 9′ 4-5wt model – to me it is just a perfect medium duty trout rod.
Colin | Apr 25, 2009 | Reply
Hi Rich,
Thanks for the info! You are correct; the rod is labeled LG 9045. The serial number at the bottom is as follows: A53354. The address on the rod tube is not the 8th Ave. address I spoke of in my previous post, but is P.O. Box. 4000, Chico, CA 95927.
Any additional info. you can provide would be very much appreciated.
-Colin
Rich | Apr 25, 2009 | Reply
Colin – that rod you’ve got was made sometime in late 94. It was sold (assuming it was originaly sold in the rod tube you currently have) in late 96 or early 97. The serial numbers were, until 94, the sequential production number followed by a dash with a single digit for rods made in the 80s (ie a rod made in 1989 would have a number ending in -9. In 1990 the end of the number was changed to a dash followed by the 2 digits of the year (ie a rod made in 1993 would end in -93). In 94 they went to the A and a 4 digit number. Sometimes the year was appended (ie yours ends in a 4) and sometimes it wasn’t – don’t know why. If you’ve got one with A and 4 digits it’s harder to date. The rod tube label has a PO box 4000 which was done when the Powell Rod Co (Press Powells marketing arm) and Walton’s rod factory came back together when Schwab was getting involved. The PO box 3966 rod tubes are from the real heart of the Powell production peroiod. There are some classic old Powell rods with the old 8th Ave address too. Most of those are the old PVC rod tubes. Actually, Walton ordered about 250 tube labels in the early 80s that read “Fishing Tackle of Distiction” – with the Distinction missing the ‘n’. I heard that Walton had this brought to his attention and grumbled that he was a rod maker, not a god damned secretary, and continued to use the labels anyway. Those are really cool to find. Anyway, perhaps too much information, but there it is.
Colin | May 4, 2009 | Reply
Hi Rich,
Thanks again for the info.! I’m curious, if you don’t mind me asking, how do you know so much about the original Powell namesake and their original rods?
I wished they published this stuff somewhere (Wikipedia, perhaps), but the web is devoid of such info. Of course, someone with first hand knowledge is always best, but they’re hard to come by these days. (Which is why I’m so thankful you responded to my post.) Had I not gone online, I don’t think I would have found the rod in the first place, and I certainly wouldn’t have found someone who knows as much about Powell rods as you do.
-Colin
Rich | May 5, 2009 | Reply
Colin – I grew up in Chico and my Dad was an avid fly fisher. We used to hang out in Walton’s shop from time to time and even fished with Walton a few times. I’ve made some friends through those connections (like Jim Clarkson who I mentioned in an earlier post) who were part of the Powell company and share my fond memories of those times. Over the years as I’ve bought and sold old Powell rods I’ve come to know quite a bit about the history. Each new type/model/serial number I find I research and talk about with these folks.
Bryan | May 16, 2009 | Reply
I have an older powell fly rod from the early 90′s. It is a 9′ 4piece 5/6/7 weight with serial numbers 2936-93 and DF90-4. Wondering what model and if an orginal powell rod. thanks for any help on this. Bryan
Rich | May 17, 2009 | Reply
Bryan – indeed you have an original Powell rod there. What type of tube is it in? What address is on the tube label (if there is one)? The rod is a Signature Series rod. The Signature Series were not labeled that on the rod until later – originally they were labeled with a very convoluted and confusing system. The trout rods were all DF – for Dry Fly – and the length in feet and inches (in your case a 9 foot rod). Then the dash and number after the rod length refered to the line weight (-1L for a 3-4 wt, -1 for a 4-5 wt…and it just gets more confusing from there) – and it was Waltons own convention. Except on the 4 piece rods. They were, as on your rod, labeled -4. During the time these rods were made Walton only had two 4 piece models…the DF86-4 and DF90-4. Both were for 5/6/7 weight lines. Yours was made in 1993, as evidenced by the -93 in the serial number. To be honest – if you tried to fish it with a 7 and even somewhat a 6 line it’s going to be a bit of a dog. It would work best with a 5 wt line. To label these for 3 different line weights was bit of a stretch. If you or anyone else are going to fish these old Powell graphite rods keep this in mind…with many of these new “super fast” action rods the line guides have been made larger. Fly lines have also increased in diameter – that’s how they “increase performance”. They make very small changes in diameter and increase the heft of the line while still calling it a “5 weight” line, for example, but it performs better on the newer rods. These older rods have smaller line guides and if you fish them with newer lines you are not getting the most out of the rod and casting performance is not as good. There are 2 lines I’ve found that have a more old school running line profile – the Scientific Angelers Mastery HeadStart lines (nice because it’s usually pretty cheap) and the Wulff Triangle Taper lines – the Triangle Taper being my favorite. I hope this helps.
Rich
Bryan | May 18, 2009 | Reply
Rich, thanks very much for your insight on the powell rod. Have not had much luck until you answered. The address on the brown metal rod tube is PO Box 4000 in Chico,Ca. Any idea on the graphite type/action? The rod build quality seems good and is an attractive rod. Thanks again, Bryan
Rich | May 18, 2009 | Reply
Bryan – it is a very high quality rod – thats a big part of why an original Powell is a wonderful fishing tool – they put out consistenly great rods. That 4 piece was not produced in really high numbers either. The action on that rod would be considered moderate or medium. Again – I’d fish it with a 5 wt line or maybe a 6 wt if I wasn’t really concerened about a lot of distance.
Rich
Colin | Jun 4, 2009 | Reply
Hi Rich,
I’m not sure if you’re still paying attention to this thread, but I have another question I was hoping you might be able to answer.
It turns out that a close friend of mine recently bought what appears to be an older fiberglass Powell fly rod on Craigslist. Personally, I’ve never seen one before. It seems like everything Powell made post 1990 was graphite or bamboo. To me, it looks like a 5-6 weight, but there isn’t an inscription on the rod itself—just the Walton Powell insignia. The rod is a 9ft two-piece, and is dark grey in color, almost black. There’s also a name engraved on the real seat, Roger Crabtree, which would seem to indicate that the rod was custom built for someone, but I’m not really sure. The rod tube is basically just a white PVC pipe with some end caps and a Powell Fly Rod sticker on it that says “Fly-Fishing Tackle of Distinction,” or something to that effect. I don’t recall the specific address on the label, but can find out if that helps.
Do you know how to identify the proper line weight for this rod, other than by simply feeling the weight and action of the rod? It feels like a very nice quality rod, if not a little slow for my taste. I imagine fighting fish would be a breeze, and nymphing in muddy waters would probably a lot of fun too. But before I recommend a fly line to my friend, I’d like to know if there’s some way to tell the weight of the rod without guessing?
Again, any info. you can provide would be very much appreciated.
Thanks,
-Colin
Rich | Jun 6, 2009 | Reply
Colin – It sounds to me like your friend has an early graphite rod there. The fiberglass rods were a very dark brown or burnt orange color. What type of ferrules does it have? That’s a sure way to tell if it’s fiberglass or not. Are the wraps green or red? Does the reel seat have a wood insert and is it bare metal or painted black? And I’m guessing the signature is black and says “The Walton Powell Rod”. The rods from that era were not marked with line weights. It would have been marked with masking tape when purchased new. The rod tube would have been too – possibly inside the cap or on the outside of the tube but that is probably long gone by now. Tell your friend to take a close look at the label. Some of those white PVC tubes were the ones that ended up with the “Fishing Tackle of Distiction” (ie no ‘n’ in Distinction) on them. Those were very slow action rods – I’ve got a couple and I always liken casting one to driving a cadillac with the seat leaned way back.
Colin | Jun 7, 2009 | Reply
Hi Rich,
Glad to hear you’re still paying attention to this post!
My buddy told me that the ferrules are the same color as the rod itself—dark grey. The wraps are black. The reel seat is bare metal. And you are right about the signature, it is black and says “The Walton Powell Rod.”
I believe the label is spelled appropriately and has the original 8th Ave. address. We’re going fishing together in two weeks and I can get a closer look at the rod then, if that helps.
Thanks,
-Colin
Colin | Jun 7, 2009 | Reply
I also didn’t see any rod weights marked on the outside of the tube, but I can get a better look in two weeks. I seriously doubt it’s anything lighter than a 4 wt., due to the size of the rod, and I also don’t think it’s heavier than a 6 wt., since there isn’t a fighting butt.
Accordingly, I think I’ll just advise my friend to buy a standard trout reel that will handle line weights from 4-6, which shouldn’t be too hard.
Rich | Jun 8, 2009 | Reply
The ferrules should be basically part of the blank as on any fiberglass rod – and thus the same color. I’m pretty sure thats a graphite rod. And a 5 wt line is almost certainly his best bet.
Colin | Jun 8, 2009 | Reply
Sounds good. Again, Rich, thanks for sharing your knowledge and expertise! I will advise my buddy accordingly.
Best,
-Colin
mike | Jul 26, 2009 | Reply
I have a Powell “Feather Light” IM6 graphite, 2 piece, line wt 4..dark green in color, green wraps, cork with wood insert. serial # 144-8
tube is aluminium I think, black with what look like brass caps.
says POWELL on the rod..
would like to know particulars on the rod…
value etc…
thanks
Mike
Rich | Aug 5, 2009 | Reply
Mike – What you have there is a Light Touch series rod built in Press Powell’s shop in Chico in 1988 – it should be an 8 foot rod. The Light Touch series all had individual names for the first few years of production and the Feather Light was the 4 wt. That’s a very fine rod you have there – the Light Touch were by far the best selling and nicest casting series ever to come out of the Powell shop. If the tube and sock are original (tube should have Powell label) I would put it’s value at between 200 and 300 dollars – depending on where and how you tried to sell it and the condition. I hope that helps and let me know if you have any other questions.
Rich
Dan | Aug 6, 2009 | Reply
Hi!
This is a great thread with a lot of info on the old Powell rods. Anyway, I have two Powell rods for sale on Craigslist right now. Open to a deal on both. Can ship. Here are the links:
Dan
http://sfbay.craigslist.org/nby/spo/1299902150.html
http://sfbay.craigslist.org/nby/spo/1300695962.html
David Jones | Aug 21, 2009 | Reply
Rich – I’ve learned a lot reading your entries. I have a rod that a friend who is part-owner of a NC fly shop gave me as a moving-away gift in 1998. It’s in a canvas-covered tube with “Powell” stitched on it, but no label. The marking on the base says “Powell LGA 865-4.”
I know what that means in terms of the specs for the rod and line. But I don’t know what it tells me in terms of when it was produced –before or after the company changed hands.
An older fellow who used to run a drift boat outfit in West Yellowstone MT saw me using it this summer and said he knew the original Powells. He’s convinced this rod was made before the change-over and told me I had something pretty special.
I’d be grateful for anything you could teach me about what I have!
Thanks
David
Rich | Aug 21, 2009 | Reply
David
Rich | Aug 21, 2009 | Reply
David – I’m glad my posts have been helpfull. I’m always up for talking about Powell rods. I’m pretty sure the rod you are asking about is one made after the company was moved to Rancho Cordova – the LGA tells me that. Is the canvas rod case you have dark blue? And what color is the blank? It is possible that the rod you have was built on a Powell blank from the Chico shop, Schwab took quite a bit of the Powell’s stock with him when went on his own. But it’s difficult to tell that – and to be honest I don’t know a whole about the rods after Press and Walton were forced out. It is a dark blue blank (the Legacy blanks were what the new Powell Co had the most of) it is almost certainly built on orginal Chico blanks and is a very good rod.
David Jones | Aug 21, 2009 | Reply
Rich — Thanks for the quick reply. The canvas casing covering the pipe is dark blue. And the blank is a dark blue — I guess the “cobalt blue” someone referred to in an earlier posting.
Before going to Montana this summer, I took two days of lessons at an Orvis School. A helpful — and apparently very honest — instructor at the school examined the rod and said, “That’s a better graphite rod than anything Orvis produces.”
So I figured I might have a better rod than I’d known for all those years that I kept it in the closet before using it.
Of course I thanked my friend when he gave me the rod in 1998. But the comments I heard last spring and this summer have made we wonder if he’d given me a more expensive gift than I’d imagined.
David
Rich | Aug 21, 2009 | Reply
David – It is indeed a Powell made after the compant was sold. It is, as I said, most likely built on an older Chico blank. And if so then yes – it is an outstanding casting rod. As I’ve said earlier in this thread, those leagacy 4-5 wts are probably my favorite rods to fish for trout with bar none. I’d guess that new that rod sold for around $300 to possibly $400 and now you might be able to get $100 to $150 for it…but I’d keep it and fish with it. It’s nice to hear the Orvis instructor saw the rod for the great casting rod it is. Enjoy it.
David Jones | Aug 21, 2009 | Reply
Thanks one more time, Rich.
When the Orvis instructor told me what a fine rod this was, and that the Powell family was no longer in the business, another student who overheard the conversation said, “You ought to take that rod home and put away somewhere safe.”
But the instructor thought like you do. He said, “Heck, no. When you’ve got a piece of equipment as fine as this, you don’t put it away. You use it for what it was intended!”
Which is exactly what I did with a wonderful guide from Blue Ribbon Flies in West Yellowstone who put my son and me onto two dozen 16-22 inch Rainbows on the Grayling River
in late May.
It was one of the best days of my life!
David
Rich | Sep 4, 2009 | Reply
Well said David…This is often an issue I have trouble with. I’ll get a really pristine example of an old Powell rod and be torn between fishing with it and putting it away. But when it comes down to it I am not an investor…I am somewhat of a collector…but first and foremost I am a fisherman. So I fish with all the rods I have. When I end with a duplicate weight and action rod I sell one and get something I don’t have. And I know neither Walton and Press would not want their rods to be stashed away – for me it honors their memory that I continue to have great days like David’s on the water with Powell rods. It reminds me of one of the greatest fly fishing stories I’ve ever read…The Fly Rod by John Gierach. It’s in his book ‘Trout Bum’. I know a lot folks have heard of and read Gierach…heck there is probably a bunch of info about him on this outstanding website. That story is one of his best.
Tim M. | Sep 14, 2009 | Reply
I built a Powell LTT 9’3” 5wt. rod. It was my favorite 5wt rod until it had an unfortunate experience with a tire and the 2 top sections are broken beyond repair. I would like to find a blank to repair it or a rod that I so I could use the top 2 sections. If not do you know of anyone who might have squirreled original Powell blanks in a back room somewhere? Thanks for any assistance you can provide.
Rich | Sep 14, 2009 | Reply
Tim – I am assuming by LTT you mean a 4 peice travel rod. The “new” Powell tried to resurect the Light Touch rods after they took over the company and sold them as LTT or Light Touch Tradiotional. I honestly don’t know how many piece rods they were. Either way, Jim Clarkson is the man you want. I mentioned him in an earlier post. His website is http://www.raptorrodworks.com He has a large inventory of old Powell blanks and has quite a few pieces from busted old Powell rods. I’m almost certain he can help you. I do know that he is out of the shop on trade show business until the 21st of Sep or so. But contact him after that.
Rich
Tim M. | Sep 14, 2009 | Reply
Rich,
Thanks for the feedback. The rod I built was an LTT935-3, 9’3″ 3 piece LTT. A beautiful rod!
I will contact Jim Glarkson and see if he has any parts for this rod, thanks.
Brooks | Sep 15, 2009 | Reply
Rich, great you are helping everyone out on here. I can’t say enough about my old Powell’s I buy them whenever I find a good one….my long reach 5/6 wt is flat out the best rod ever made as far as I am concerned. I wouldn’t mind having a couple more.
Johan | Oct 8, 2009 | Reply
Hi all!
This is a great thread indeed. I live in Sweden and Powell rods are not that usual around here.I’m happy to have two of these rods in my possession. Both are custom made here in Sweden on what I think is Chico era blanks.
First one is a great rod, called ”Powell Scandinavia”. Burgundy red blank. Unfortunatly mine is rather sloppy made, but it don’t stop me at all from using it. I’ve been told that they were sold only as blanks and where named exlusively for the Powell dealer here in Sweden at that time, Lennart Bergqvist fly shop. I want to know is if these Scandinavia blanks has a different name in the U.S?
I also have a rod marked Powell LT 8´3”, 4-5 weight. From my view this one is similar looking to those LT’s you see from time to time at Ebay. A truly fine craft, on a dark green blank, and Powell styled aluminium and wooden reel seat. But from what I’ve heard, the guy who built it claims this is a ”Powell Silver Creek” rod. Is this correct? Does anybody know more about the Silver Creek rods?
Please, fill me in on these issues.
Thanks,
Johan
Rich | Oct 10, 2009 | Reply
Johan…great to hear from a Swedish Powell lover. As far as your Powell Scandinavia rod – I don’t know anything about that. It sounds like either a Sinature Series or early Legacy blank. I do have a call into a friend who may know something about it. I’ll let you know if I hear anything on that. As far as the LT goes…that is a Light Touch rod. Up until the mid 90′s each one of the Light Touch models had a name. The 8’3″ 4-5 wt was called the “Silver Creek”. In the mid 90′s they changed the labeling to remove the names and just label the model…as on your rod…an LT 83 4-5. Is there a serial number on the rod? That might give a better idea of when exactly it was made.
Johan | Oct 10, 2009 | Reply
My Powell Scandinavia is a 9´, 3 weight , slow-medium action rod. I use SA:s non-spook 3 wt. line and it’s a killer combination for dry flying. I would say the Signature Series fits the description well. A friend of mine compared it to almost cane action. I don’t know anything about cane, But I do know I really like the smooth action at shorter distances and the backbone that shows when you hold some line in the air. Here in Sweden, the Powell Scandinavia series are mentioned as one of the legendary rod series among some flyfishermen (who has been around for a while). And that goes for both light trout rods as mine, and the heavier 14-15´ salmon rods.
Thank you for the enlightment on the Silver Creek mystery. Sorry to say there is no serial number on my rod, neither do i have original tubes or socks. Rumours (a swedish source) says that there are at least to versions of Powell Silver Creek rods. Walton Powell built the first one on a green blank, and a later one were built on a blue blank. Does this make any sense?
Cheers
/Johan
Rich | Oct 10, 2009 | Reply
Johan…it sort of makes sense. The Silver Creek rods were just one many models in the Light Touch line if rods. These were all always made on a green blank. The Legacy series rods were intially made on a red/brown blank and were later switched to a blue blank. When the Powell company was sold in the late 90s, the new Powell discontinued the Light Touch but continued the legacy production in the blue blank. They eventually tried to bring back the light touch (in a green blank I think) as the light touch traditional. I don’t know much about the newer Powell stuff. I don’t care to. The other item to clarify…Walton Powell never made Light Touch rods. His son Press Powell (the owner/operator of Powell rod co) made most of the popular graphite rods we all know. The signature series, light touch, legacy, west branch were all Press’ rod lines. The only regular graphite rods Walton ever made were “The Walton Powell Rod” rods.
Rich | Oct 12, 2009 | Reply
Johan – I spoke with a friend of mine today who worked for the Powells for many years. He says he clearly remembers that the Lennart Bergqvist shop had the sole distribution rights for Powell stock in Sweden. He says I was correct, that the other rod you have has got to be on a Signature Series blank custom built there in Sweden. You said it was a 9 foot 3 wt…had it been made at the Powell shop it would been labeled as a DF90-1L and later (about 1995 or so) as an SS 9034. I hope this helps.
Rich
Johan | Oct 14, 2009 | Reply
Thanks Rich for the great info on these rods. A rod with a story makes it more fun to own and fish with. Tell your “Powell friend” that the real Powell rods are still alive and kicking in Sweden.
Best Regards
//Johan
rich | Oct 22, 2009 | Reply
Rich, can you tell me if original Tiborons say made in usa on them.Thanks scott
Rich | Oct 26, 2009 | Reply
Scott – Tiburon is a line of rods made when the Powell familly were no longer involved in the company. I have no good info on those rods. Sorry,
Rich
rich | Oct 26, 2009 | Reply
Thank-you for your time.scott
David Markley | Nov 6, 2009 | Reply
Rich, I ran across this thread while reserching a Powell rod blank that I purchased and built into a very nice rod. However after fishing it with a 6wt line I am not sure it is a 6wt blank. Here are the details, the blank is a beautiful dark brown gloss finish, I did not get a rod tube but there was a sticker on the blank that had the following information, DF90-2L 652-9. Can you help me identify what blank I have, Thanks very much, Dave
Rich | Nov 6, 2009 | Reply
Dave, That blank you built with is a Signature Series blank. These were moderate action rods. The DF90-2L means it is a 9ft 5-6 wt blank. The 652-9 is the serial number…the -9 indicating it was made in 1989. As far as the apparent lack of casting performance…I don’t know how many or in what way you spaced your guides…that can impact casting ability and is something both Walton and Press spent some considerable time on when building rods. I would guess that if you fished it with a 5 wt line you would like it better. Again, these moderate action rods could take getting used to if you are used to more modern faster rods. I don’t know what brand/age of line you are casting. Read my post from 17 May 09 for some info on lines that can improve the casting of these older rods…although in your case it might depend on what kind of snake guides you built the rod with. I hope this helps.
Rich
Bryan Ion | Nov 10, 2009 | Reply
I Too have what i think is an original powell,the sticker on the rod tube says LT9667 and on the rod the serial number is 53463A it was bought from Partridge of Redditch when they were the UK distributer.but any other info would be appreciated
Rich | Nov 10, 2009 | Reply
Bryan – Does the rod have markings on it beside the serial number? What color is the blank? How many pieces is the rod? What is the rod tube made from? These are all things I’d need to know to determine if is an original Powell. I don’t know much about Powell distribution in the UK, but I can look into it.
Bryan Ion | Nov 11, 2009 | Reply
Hi The rod is the green colour with green whippings and yellow tippings,it has the powell famous real fitting with the maple insert,its two piece and the tube is metal with the powell sticker on it,the addressc on the sticker is p.o.box 4000 chico,ca,95927.
cheers
Bry
rich | Nov 11, 2009 | Reply
Came across a Powell Coho 100.Never heard of them and can’t find anything on it. Can you help?hanks….scott
Rich | Nov 11, 2009 | Reply
Bryan…based on the rod tube it sounds like an original Powell. I can’t say for sure though. If there is NOTHING on the rod itself besides the serial number I will need to do a little more research. Would it be fair to say the wraps were green tipped with gold? I’m fairly certain this rod is a Light Touch 9 foot 6 inch 6-7wt rod. This would have been called the Long Reach-6 before the naming convention was removed from Light Touch rods in the mid-90′s.
Rich | Nov 11, 2009 | Reply
Scott – The Coho name was used on both the Light Touch series (green blank) and the Signature Series (root beer brown blank). Again, before the naming conventions were taken off the Powell rods in the mid 90′s, all the Signature Series rods made for Steelhead/Salmon fishing were called Coho…the 90L was a 9ft 8-9wt rod, the 90H was a 9ft 9-10 wt rod. The Coho 100 was a 10ft, 0in (thus the 100) 9-10wt rod. Those that you are looking at (I saw them as well) are both custom made by Powell. The Coho 100 did not come with a fighting butt standard so that was added (this was a common request) and the 10ft 6in rod was a custom length as well. A serial number ending in -6 indicates they were made in 1986. You can read some of my previous posts regarding the action and best lines to use with the Signature Series rods if you’ve never fished them before…they are great rods and really would do an outstanding job of passing the feel of river bed vs strike so often needed for Steelhead fishing.
rich | Nov 11, 2009 | Reply
Rich,Thanks so much.Really appreciate your time and help.Very impressed at your knowledge and details of Powell rods.My first two fly rods were powell’s and have soft spot for them all.(pre) Thanks again,scott
Bryan Ion | Nov 11, 2009 | Reply
Hi Rich,the serial number on the rod is A53463.
it has POWELL then underneath ,Made in the USA,then LT9667 9″ 6″ 6-7wt ,which is in white ink.
the whippings are green with yellow tippings,
I know of only two other Powells in the UK which are in near mint condition and belong to a friend of mine who will not send then to me,
At one point in the UK, Powell made rods for Bob church and co which were black blanks ,i had one of these but it came to an unfortunate end with a weighted fly,
thanks again
Bry
Mike Fell | Nov 11, 2009 | Reply
Hi everyone, I saw this post doing a little research on my Father’s Powell Rods. He recently passed away, and although I was a huge fan including one story when I broke a tip, not only did he send a new tip, but also repaired the old tip with a note: “you can always use a extra tip just in case the biggest truck fish and you battle again.” I was blown away. Well anyway, this past year I was diagnosed with a terminal brain disease (44 yo) and will be unable to use there rods any more – they have all seen great steelhead landed and will treasure those perfect day. The are on ebay now and they end tomorrow – but if you have a chance take a look. He even had a couple custom made that are “Coho and Coho 100″ 10′ and 10’6″ for fishing the eel. Thanks again and tight lines….
Thanks Mike,
mikefell1@gmail.com
Rich | Nov 11, 2009 | Reply
Bryan – that is an original Powell you have there…just as I described before, it’s a Light Touch…probably from the 1996 to 1998 time frame. Good rod. And if I was your friend I’d hang on to my original Powell’s too. I don’t know what the rods are that were on the black blank. I’ll see if I can get any info on those. Anyway, enjoy that rod you have.
Rich
Kittie Harmon | Nov 12, 2009 | Reply
I have a Walton Powell Hexagraph 8’6 . I bought htis rod about 8 years ago. It’s a dark green 2 piece. It has never been used. It’s onebeautiful rod.
rich | Nov 13, 2009 | Reply
Can’t believe those two powell coho’s went so cheap.(approx 130.00)Thought they would fetch a nice price! Dan P
Rich | Nov 14, 2009 | Reply
Kittie – the hexagraphs are cool. The dark green is one of the early hexagraphs from Walton. They went to the bamboo look finish on those evetually. It should be fished though. Dan…I was suprised the Cohos didn’t go higher as well. By timing is everything with ebay. Someone got a good deal.
Rich | Nov 15, 2009 | Reply
I’m going to post this here…it seems that this thread on Mr Barton’s quality site is getting a few search hits. This is for anyone who ends up here wanting to sell a Powell on ebay or craigs list or whatever. First…figure out a price you’d want for the rod. Or ask what the rod may be worth…I’ll give you an honest assesment. Then let us know it is for sale here. This is mainly due to the fact that I am always interested in buying old Powells, so I’m hoping for first shot
. But if you are going to list one, here are some things you must do to ensure you get what the rod is worth and save yourself some time not answering all the questons you will get. 1) Include a couple of quality photos of what is written on the rod and also include this info, including the serial number, in the text of the listing. 2) Include good photos of the rod tube, rod sock, cork grip, and reel seat. This makes a huge difference in the price you can get for the rod – particularly the tube and sock . 3) Learn as much as you can on the history and action of the rod and inlude this info in your auction. Ask me here and I’ll be happy to provide what I can to aid in this. 4) Maximize exposure. Make your auction visible to ebay international, set the auction to run at least 7 days, if not 10, and make sure the words Powell Fly Rod appear in the title. I sold a hexapragh (not an early green one as mentioned above, but a nice rod none the less) and I got a premium price from a buyer in Japan. There is a huge Powell following world wide and particularly in Japan. I’ve bought and sold 30 to 40 Powell rods on ebay. Follow these rules and you should maximize you chances of a good showing.
Kittie Harmon | Nov 15, 2009 | Reply
Where can I get more information on the Walton Powell I have? It only has the sig. and Hex. wih the 8’6 on it. everything is in excellent shape.
Rich | Nov 16, 2009 | Reply
Kittie, The Hexagraph rods are graphite solid core rods that have an action like bamboo. They are made of six traingular segments – thus the name. Walton and couple of rod builders in England named Brue and Walker collaborated on the idea. Bruce and Walker were interested in making 2 handed Spey rods and Walton on trout rods. So they struck a deal and worked out the rights as to what sort of rods each could make. They each went their own direction with the idea and Walton really refined the tapers and technology. When he first started producing the rods they were finished in that dark green. I’m guessing the letteing on the rod is hand written, not in any type face, correct? If there is no line weight on it (make sure you check the rod tube closely and inside the cap for any possible info written there) it’s probably a 5-6 wt. That was what most of those early hexagraphs were. I’d guess that rod is from the late 80′s/early 90s and I’d say it was worth any where from $350 to $600. At some point the went to a very nice bamboo look finish on those rods. A man named Harry Briscoe helped further refine the Hexagraph line and Walton later sold the entire line to Mr Briscoe and he is still marketing the rods. Jim Clarkson, who I mentioned in an earlier post, still builds all the Hexagraph rods in his shop in Chico. You can check them out at:
http://www.hexagraph.com
rich | Nov 17, 2009 | Reply
Rich,do you have a addrees for PM;s.Thanks scott
Rich | Nov 17, 2009 | Reply
Scott, you or anyone else can email me at gyro@suddenlink.net
Bryan Ion | Nov 19, 2009 | Reply
Hi
Its me again.i have managed to obtain another,what i think is a genuine Powell,its a two piece 10ft.LT10078 its a green blank with the same tube etc as my 9ft 6in.
could you verify this for me.
Bry
Rich | Nov 20, 2009 | Reply
Bryan – if it’s got that same tube with the Chico address label, it’s probably an orginal Powell. What is the serial number on this one?
Rich | Nov 24, 2009 | Reply
Bryan – I spoke to a friend the other day and asked about those Bob Church rods and he confirmed they were indeed made by Powell. They were Signature Series blanks finshed with custom cosmetics. They were all 2 piece and all in the heavier range…8′ 6″ to 10′ lengths and 7-8wt, 8-9wt, and 9-10wt rods. Apparently as a business deal, things did not go well for Powell on that one. Anyway, a little more info there.
Bryan Ion | Nov 25, 2009 | Reply
Hi Rich,The UK Powells also included a rather lovely 9ft 6in #6/7,i had one of these but times were hard and i had to sell it,my latest Powell,the 10 ft #7/8 serial number is A51254 ,should this rod have had i fighting butt as its not there.
cheers
rich | Nov 25, 2009 | Reply
Coho’s arrived,one good,one not so much.PM’d you.scott
Mark RIgsby | Dec 12, 2009 | Reply
I found it interesting to read all the posts on the Powell rods. I got my start in fly fishing at the Chico Shop in 1994. I learned to tie flies there, and eventually tied a number of patterns for Press and Jim. I recall seeing the old guys that used to have coffee there every morning until I moved to Idaho. I owned 6 of the Original fly rods, an EC Powell Bamboo and three of the original Salmon casting rods that the Powell Fly shop sold in the early ’90′s. I have no interest in the newer fly rods, as the knowledge that I have from watching Geno and DJ pick my blanks out, line up the spines and set the eyes, to the girls that worked in the back wrapping them. My name is inscribed on all of them, as well as 2 having custom Koa wood seats from wood I brought home from Hawaii when I lived there in the service. My first rod was the 9’6″ 7-8wt “Summer Run” that I bought to fish for Steelhead. I then acquired a 4-5wt SS, a LT9656 5-6wt Light touch we built for Feather River Steelies, a 9-10 Coho, a 12-13 Legacy for Stripers and offshore. I had a beutiful little SS 3-4wt, but had to give it back when I got a divorce in ’95. The days at the shop with Ken Watters, Larry Blunt (Owner today), Tim Fox, Keith Skirrow and others were dsome good times. Good times fishing as well. For those that someday get the chance to cast and own one of the original Powell Rods, surely will not be disappointed… Tight Lines, Mark
Mark RIgsby | Dec 12, 2009 | Reply
Keith Bryan | Dec 26, 2009 | Reply
Hi K Barton?,
You know from time to time I look around at all of the different web forums and peek to see what’s happening in the virtual community because there’s a lot of brave dudes behind their computers, and I must say that when I came across this older thread I had to chime in briefly because I always like to see the Powell name in lights, good or bad. And I see it’s still tagged onto from time to time. That’s how infrequent I get on these things.
You know you claim you know nothing but you put out a title that asked me to stand up, so here I am, HI.
Now, to set just a piece of the record straight this wasn’t a story of a “Superior Craftsman meets Sugar Daddy as you claim. Additionally, you say you don’t know anything about the people that were involved, nor do you know anything at all about events that transpired about the Powell rod Co, so I’ll leave you with this. And if you have any more comments or questions, you can call me directly, but I’ll not get into a pissing match on here, but please call me if you genuinely care to STAND UP YOURSELF and discuss anything with the REAL POWELL ROD COMPANY OWNER, here’s the Toll Free #—1-888-635-9763.
My job first and foremost is to build a company that represents fishing, period, and not just fly fishing. Additionally, we are building more and more products every year which include fly rods, reels and casting and spinning rods just like the Powell’s wanted it, because they wanted to be a FISHING ROD COMPANY that covered every aspect of fishing rods.
Just to cover several points because again, if you knew what chain of events that led up to outside folks getting involved in the company and what happened after that, then you wouldn’t be throwing grenades because the facts are so over whelming. In fact, if you could be unbiased when presented the facts you would say, Oh My God, I didn’t know that, wow that makes sense.
1. Press Powell was a good man, and may he rest in peace. He and I spoke right before he passed and he told me, he liked the direction the company was headed, no matter what any of you say.
2. There was no sugar daddy eyeballing or eager to get involved, they were begged to get in because the doors were closing. (I bet the Sugar Daddy is a better Fly fisherman and Fly caster then ¾ of Fly Fisherman out there in the world) I’ve seen it. For those of you that thought this was a tax write off, you know nothing about what you say in that context.
3. The family NEVER EVER made their own blanks other than Bamboo. They assembled blanks made by other various other companies, which was a huuuuge problem for repeatability and dependability when you are trying to run a manufacturing company.
4. There’s been one sided bogus articles written from several buffoons.
5. The family reputation as a Whole Sale Business to Dealers was terrible, to put it mildly before outside people got involved.
2009——–Now the company has control of its own manufacturing. I got the original Bamboo blank
Making Equipment back to the Family. We are growing every year and making the name reputable in the Fishing Rod world and it’s taken a lot of hard work. We will continue to up hold the name as one of the great ones in the history of Rod Building and now, Rod Manufacturing, combined with First Class Service.
If this sets off a firestorm or if it doesn’t I could care less. I’m sick and tired of Buffoons out there like you throwing grenades or making inferences about something you know nothing about. My job here in this post is to be sure that a few snippets of the truth are out there, so folks can always refer to it, period. Which some folks will gravitate towards and hard line grenade throwers will never want to hear.
Keith Bryan
Powell Rods
KBarton10 | Dec 26, 2009 | Reply
Thanks for working yourself into a rage over nothing. My post pointed out the Chico newspaper article – and while I may have added some “general” color about the nature of rich fellows and their patronizing of artists and craftsmen – I made no claim to knowledge of detail in the transition of the Powell Rod Company.
“Old World craftsman meets Sugardaddy” is a reoccuring issue in this business. Leonard, Winston, Thomas & Thomas, Orvis – all of the legendary cane makers of the past have transitioned from craftsman-owned to sugardaddy-owned, perhaps some for the better.
The Powell story is one of many – and while the principles might know the details – as mentioned above – I do not.
With 36 models of spinning and casting rods, and only 16 fly rods (eight in graphite, 8 in bamboo) – it’s certain you’re not the Powell company of old. Congratulations.
Rich | Dec 26, 2009 | Reply
Mr Bryan, if I may, I’d like to address a couple of points here. Let me begin by saying I am someone who DID know the people we are talking about here. Here is the problem with your post. If you are getting so upset that, as the owner of a professional rod company, you are bothering to read internet blogs and post sour grapes posts ranting against “misinformation” then there must be something to the stories. Otherwise why would a upwardly moblie executive like you lower yourself to respond to such tripe? Here is my take: yes the Powells were not the most skilled businesmen. They may have gone “begging” as you say. I don’t know what the exact conditions of the books were (for either Press or Walt) at the time, but neither do you. The Powells thought they had a chance to increase their piece of the pie and make more money and, as any of us would, they took it. What they were not looking to do was sell the family name and business. They did not realize what they were giving away, and that is their fault. But the Sugar Daddy took it. You and I both know he didn’t have to. The fact remains that he did. And I don’t give a good god damn what kind of fisherman he is…based on his actions I can tell what kind of man he is. Josef Stalin could have been the best fly fisherman in the world at the time. Does that somehow excuse what he was? I am not trying to equate what the Schwabs did to the Powells with what Stalin did to the people of the USSR, just making a point about the paucity of your argument. You try to portray the fact that they didn’t make their own blanks into some sort of major weakness. I don’t recall ever hearing, at that time, anything but glowing praise for their rods. So what does it matter where the blanks came from? Do us and yourself a favor and stop cruising the internet looking for people bad mouthing your company. You think the CEO of Best Buy does this kind of thing? Do you think he finds bloggers and accuses them of hiding behind their computers? Concentrate on being a professional rod maker. Make and market the best rods you can and ignore the lunatic fringe. If you keep this sort of thing up people will figure where there is smoke there is fire and you’ll keep the rumor mill churning. There are a number of reasons why I will never own one of your rods. Posts like this is one of them.
Rich Morrison
gyro@suddenlink.net
Robert | Jan 12, 2010 | Reply
Keith,
I’ve fished with Chuck on occasion for 40 years both in Montana and at the club in the midwest. You know where it is. There are 20 something kids in Montana that will fish the boots off Chuck day in and day out so save your bragging for the golf course. I’d also like to suggest that you add some damn humility to your fly box.
CAESY | Jan 14, 2010 | Reply
Hello. I was wondering if anyone might have any info on a rod I have. The only markings on it are in hand written white paint that say
Walton Powell
8′ 0″ 5-6 wt
It has a burgundy’ish colored blank with green thread guide wrapping. The blank has the (for lack of a better word) sheen of graphite, but the action feels more like fiberglass.
My grandfather said he bought it from the Powell shop in Chico, but what year I don’t know. I would guess in the early to mid 90′s, but he is no longer around to ask now so I don’t know for sure. I did have one person speculate that this was a rod that was made during the transition from the Powell’s in Chico, and that was a reason that it said Walton Powell on it.
Any info would be appreciated.
Thank You,
Casey
ngrcbr@gmail.com
Mark Rigsby | Jan 19, 2010 | Reply
Casey, I’m not totally sure, but that may have been one of the earlier series of graphite rods that became the COHO line. I have a COHO 9-10wt. For the other guys that are pitching a fit over the Powell name/rods etc… I suggest that you enjoy the company for what it once was (As I remember it)… a Small company that produced a number of fine quality rods. I know from sitting in the back room helping out on occasion, that G.Loomis at one point provided them with blanks built on Powell Designed Mandrels. Does it matter? No, not in my opinion, because that was just one component in the manufacturing process. (I personally cut reel seat blanks out of specialty woods in the back room of the rod company) Press and Walt were good guys, and for those that knew him at the shop, Walt could be a crotchety old SOB, but that was Walt. We could criticize many different companies that have changed. G. Loomis is one of the biggest, after it sold out to Shimano in 1997. The reality of today is that in order to survive, companies are forced to form partnerships with larger businesses that do not always see the product for what it was, but rather what it might be. Times change, products evolve, and not always for the best. Remember “New Coke”? it flopped, and Coca-Cola was forced to return to the original recipe. Until people are convinced that the old Powell Rods or other brands are superior, they will be a memory of the past, with those that possess them the lucky ones. Tight lines, and thats my .02 worth of soap box etiquette
Mike | Jan 23, 2010 | Reply
Hello. I was wondering if anyone could please provide me with some information on the following Powell rods I just became the new owner of:
1.) Powell LGA 904-4 (9ft 4wt) blue blank and case, made in USA.
2.) Powell 9ft 7in bamboo rod. 2-piece. Beautiful older rod in excellent condition; no writing on it; appears to be 5wt. Reel seat stamped E.C. Powell Maker Marysville, CAL
Any info would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Mike
Rich | Jan 28, 2010 | Reply
Mike – The LGA is post sale and probably from the Rancho Cordova facility…but I don’t know for sure. The bamboo sounds like an EC Powell solid built…very hard to date those as there were few changes made over the years…only the late era Maslan rods had the different reel seat – which you don’t have. Could be worth anywhere from $600 to probably $1000. You could email Jim Adams at adamsangling@comcast.net – he is a reputable rod dealer who could tell you alot more about that bamboo rod.
Mike | Jan 28, 2010 | Reply
Thanks Rich:
A friend’s father who was an avid fly fisherman passed away several years back. Recently the family went through his stored belongings and I became the happy recipient of his fishing gear; about 13 rods total; seven bamboo all in socks and tubes. I was able to trace some of the bamboo rods back to the late 1940’s. The standouts are the LC Powell and a Heddon Expert with two tips; both appear to have never been used and in excellent condition – they are on display in my office and receive a lot of attention. I have a Powell 3/4 wt. reel and intend to pair it up with the LGA for still water trout.
Mike
Rich | Jan 29, 2010 | Reply
Mike – could you please explain/describe your Powell reel?
Rich
Rich | Feb 27, 2010 | Reply
Just posting this here…I’ve got an original Chico Powell Legacy Light built on the cobalt blue blank. It is a 9 foot 5-6wt rod. It is in good condition – it has been fished and has a little scuffing on the butt section. It does not have a tube or sock. I can supply a new aluminum tube and sock if needed for additional cost. These original Legacies harder and harder to come by. I’m asking $275 for it. Email me at gyro@suddenlink.net if you are interested.
Rich
Tom McCoy | Mar 29, 2010 | Reply
I have a friends rod who recently passed. It is a 9′ graphite with the only label on it being “the walton Powell rod”. It seems to be a 8-9 wt. it hs two tips and two stripping guides. the other guides are of a double loop design. the reel seat seems to be aluminum ( for salt water?) Email me and I’ll send you photos if you think you are interested.
Tom McCoy | Mar 29, 2010 | Reply
I have a friend’s rod who recently passed. It is a 9? graphite with the only label on it being “the walton Powell rod”. It seems to be a 8-9 wt. has two tips and two stripping guides. the other guides are of a double loop design. the reel seat seems to be aluminum. over 20 years old at least. interested?
Rich | Apr 21, 2010 | Reply
I still have that Legacy Light for sale. I’ve lowered the price to $225 including shipping. Here is link to an ad with photos.
http://www.ncffb.org/joomla_1.0.12/index.php/component/option,com_adsmanager/page,show_ad/adid,179/catid,2/Itemid,102/
Rich | May 8, 2010 | Reply
The above mentioned rod has been sold.
Rich | May 8, 2010 | Reply
Tom McCoy – I am interested in talking to you about that rod. I can’t email you since you did not post your address – please email me at gyro@suddenlink.net and we’ll talk. Thanks,
Rich
Dave F. | May 9, 2010 | Reply
Rich
What a wealth of knowledge. I have a 9′-6″, 4 3/4oz., 2 piece with extra tip. Everything original, including tube and cloth. My grandfather bought it from EC in the 40′s. My grandfathers name is written on the butt. They were apparently friends, as he had a number of flyrods and they were all Powells. He also lived in Marysville. This particular rod has been unused for over 40 years, which is a shame. I was affraid to use it and risk damaging such a beautifull heirloom. I am considering selling it but I’d like to see it go to someone who would truely appreciate it and it’s legacy.
Any suggestions?
Rich | May 9, 2010 | Reply
Dave – please email me at gyro@suddenlink.net and we’ll talk. Thanks,
Rich
Don | May 27, 2010 | Reply
I have a Press Powell fly rod that has never been used (looks that way. I’m try to find out whats its worth for the estate. It’s signed as was a custom rod so I’m told.
It’s a 9′ 6,7,8 wt.
I have photos
Thank you for your time.
Don
Rich | May 27, 2010 | Reply
Don – I’d love to see the photos and talk to you about this rod. Please email me at gyro@suddenlink.net .
Rich
Tony | Jun 27, 2010 | Reply
I am heartbroken! I just broke the tip section of my LT 9034 and of course, they’re no longer available. Does anyone know where I can either replace that tip section or just get another LT 9034? I recently was inadvertently fishing a 6 wt line on it, thinking I had packed my 6 wt Powell on a fishing trip and it cast that line with ease! When I discovered my error, it just made me love my Powell even more. HELP anyone?!
Rich | Jun 27, 2010 | Reply
Tony – What a bummer!! A 9034 Light Touch will be hard to come by. But contact Jim Clarkson at http://www.raptorrodworks.com . His phone number is on his website. He has some old Powell blank stock as well a bunch of odds and ends vintage Powell rods in his shop for just such an incident. If anyone can help you – it’s Jim. You can also email me at gyro@suddenlink.net. I am always dealing in vintage Powell rods and I have a number of contacts – I’m usually able to find what folks are looking for if I have afew months to work on it. Either way we’ll get you and that sweet rod back on the water.
Rich
Alex | Jul 20, 2010 | Reply
I have two “old” powell rod’s that I am selling. My dad just retired and inherited over 20 fly rods. I have “summer run” 7-8 weight. ( 5593*9 Dr. Keith Hansen) also have a SS 8’0″ 3-4wt (A54088). Both are in great condition. If you have any questions email me at anguyen3131@gmail.com
Bruce Picton | Sep 17, 2010 | Reply
I have a Walton Powell bamboo rod that Mr. Powell gave to my great uncle Milton Black on the Fall River…..The case and rod were both signed by Walton….Still the labeling(#74-10, 4 3/4 oz)& (B-9,8’91/2) on the case and the cloth insert……It has two tips and measures 8′ 9 1/2″ If interested ….blpicton@gmail.com
Bruce Picton | Sep 17, 2010 | Reply
I have a Walton Powell bamboo rod that Mr. Powell gave to my great uncle Milton Black on the Fall River…..The case and rod were both signed by Walton….Still the labeling(#74-10, 4 3/4 oz)& (B-9,8’91/2) on the case and the cloth insert……It has two tips and measures 8? 9 1/2? If interested ….blpicton@gmail.com
Richard Howe | Sep 17, 2010 | Reply
I have a Powell Silver Creek IM6 4-5 WT,Serial #1502-93 .Rod is 8′Green blank with green and black wraps. Cork grip, reel seat has maple insert. Rod is in it’s original cloth rod bag with the Powell white label with the brown,black and green fly. Case is black aluminum with brass screw top marked Powell”A tradition of Excellence in Flyfishing” PO Box 4000 Chico CA 95927 916-345-3393. Rod fishes as well as my Payne model 102 or my Phillipson Pacemacker both circa 1945-1946 and that’s saying alot.Thanks for all the info on the Powell rods
Rich | Sep 19, 2010 | Reply
Richard – a fine rod indeed. I also have a Silver Creek but mine is a little earlier vintage. With the green and black wraps it must have been a custom rod. Are you the original owner? And I think you’ll find the rod is 8′ 3″ vs 8′. Are you interested in selling it?