Vintage fly rods are most associated with classic trout fishermen of yesteryear.  Production of bamboo rods began in the mid 1800's, mostly attributed to Samuel Phillipe of Pennsylvania.  The bamboo fly rod was then popularized by Hiram Leonard and the HL Leonard Rod Company.  Most collectible fly rods are made of bamboo but many are composed of graphite and composite.  Some of the prized early makers who perfected the art of bamboo rods include Lyle Dickerson, Thaddeus Norris, Paul Young and Bob Summers just to name a few.  Please check out my vintage fishing lures and vintage duck decoys page as well.