Payne, E.F. - Model 198

Available to you is a very scarce Payne Model 198 bamboo fly rod. This is a 7' 6" three-piece for a 4 or 5 weight line weighing 3.90oz. This rod throws a 4 and 5 weight line equally well taking on a slightly different personality with each. The majority of the 198s I have cast/fished are a true 5 weight. The lighter action on this earlier model 198 makes it feel similar to a later 197. Often the 198 is a true 5wt. All sections are full length and straight.

This rod features medium tempered cane with Payne dark brown wraps tipped yellow and has a red stripping guide. Blued cap and sliding band over walnut spacer. Stamp on butt cap reads "E.F. Payne Rod. E.F. Payne Rod Co. Makers" dating this to the late 1920s through 1930s. Size 15 and 10 ferrules with a perfect fit. In my hand, this rod has a wonderful medium-fast dry fly characteristic. Masterfully rebuilt by Don Schroeder. Original bag and tube.