Payne, E.F. – Model 197

Marked 198 on the original tag, the specs for this rare 1930s model later became the 197, and the 198 became a faster, slightly more substantial taper. For many Payne enthusiasts, the 197 taper is the holy grail. This is a 7' 6" 3/2, weighing 3.25 oz. All sections are full length and straight.

This rod features medium tempered cane with Payne dark brown wraps tipped yellow. Blued cap and sliding band over Spanish cedar spacer. Size 13 and 8 ferrules with a perfect fit. In my hand, this rod has a wonderful medium dry fly characteristic with the buttery smooth aura of all Paynes. Steve Blake meticulously removed the original varnish saving the original wraps with the exception of those at the ferrules. Original bag and tube. This will quickly find its way into the hands of a Payne enthusiast.