South Bend Model 55 Bamboo Fly Rod, 9’, 3/1, 6-7 wt.

This rod has a solid walnut handle (like the Heddon Model 60), which I feel gives better feedback and control over what the rod is doing, compared to a soft cork handle.  It doesn’t have a bag or tube.  The varnish is perfect and the ferrule fit is good.  The negatives are that one tip is 1.5” short, the stripper guide has been rewound, and there is a slight set in the mid-section.  All in all, however, this is a solid, inexpensive rod for heavy trout or bass use.