I’ve got a bunch of old and classic Hardy fly rods in lengths from 9’-10´ to 10´6”. AFTM classes range from 6 to 8.
It’s Favourite-, De Luxe- and Sovereign models. Most of these have a full flexing action – and would in my point of view make splendid switch rods. Problem was I couldn’t find any extension butts for these old rods. I talked to my friend Thorkild Damm, and he told me this wasn’t really a problem, that he could not solve for me. So, being a bit of a wizard in a metal workshop, Thorkild made me some prototype extensions (the centre hardware at least). A short fight butt for… uhm… keeping the reel free of my clothes while fighting fish – and a longer model for two handed casting. He also made a little adapter for my power tool (drill) so I could rotate the cork while shaping.
After that I got hold of some cork from a rod building supplier. I chose Ussingbeck, and was totally impressed by the quality of the products. The cork was marvellous. I highly recommend these guys.
Then I spend an evening gluing and shaping. And the results… well check out the pictures. Great thing is, I haven’t altered the classic rods in any way – just made them more versatile.
I’m very pleased with the outcome. So far I have only done a bit of lawn casting, but I’m am going fishing later this week. I will follow up on my progress in switching.
Comments
MC
Hi Michael,
Your blog popped up in my Google journey looking for a replacement section for my Dads 10ft 6 4 piece sovereign. The third piece broke at the third/fourth joint and he hasn’t had the same satisfaction from the other fly rods he has tried.
I hope you don’t mind me contacting you like this but it has proven difficult to return the rod to its former glory. I was hoping you might be able to advise as to the best place to focus my search for this elusive part.
Thank you,
MC
Michael Jensen
Hi MC
Thank you for your comment. Well atlas I don’t think it is an easy task you’re on. First off I would try to contact Hardy. They might be able to help you, even though it is a long shot. These rods went out of production decades ago. The next best advice i can give you is to watch eBay and similar auction sites, for a spare part… or a new sovereign rod. Another chance could be to enter some or the vintage- or classic rod forums and ask for help.
Most of these rods probably were sold in UK, so that could be a lead too. Hope you succeed.
Best regards
Michael
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