Leonard, H.L. – Model 65, 7' 6"

For your consideration is a seldom seen early H.L. Leonard Model 65 bamboo fly rod. This is a 7' 6" two-piece for a 5 or 6 weight line weighing 3.55 ounces. The Model 65 is a faster dry fly taper. All sections are straight and full length.

This consists of straw-colored cane with yellow wraps. The all cork grip displays only minor ridging. The stamp is clear and reads "The Leonard Rod, H.L. Leonard Rod Co. Makers, Reg. US Pat Off" dating this between 1923 and 1964. In my hand, the action is on the fast side of medium fast with much of the action in the upper half to 2/3 of the taper. The ferrules set and have a strong pop when separated.

In 1970, this rod was given to a gentleman by his girlfriend's father – he received a few of his older rods. The young lad who received this rod preferred 8' 0" rods and this has not been fished since he received it in 1970. The wraps on one tip are a slight tone darker but match the tone of the wraps at the keeper and winding check. They appear to be as old as the other wraps suggesting thread from a different spool and it aged this way, or they were possibly factory rewrapped quite sometime before the fire. The wraps have a recent professional over varnish. There is a two inch clear wrap below the first guide below the tip top on one tip. The overwrap that was there was removed and inspected. Appears there might have been some delamination at one point. It was elected to replace it for precaution even though it appeared to be sound. It's every bit as difficult to see in the second photo as it is in person. This is a 70-100 year old piece of history which is ready to be fished.