Thomas, F.E. – 7' 6" Special

For your consideration is an F.E. Thomas Special bamboo fly rod. This is a 7' 6", 3/2, 4wt/5wt., 3.55 oz. Serial number F-493. All sections are full-length and straight.

The letter "F" was used for rods made in 1945 and for 1946 as well.  They didn't stop the numbers at the end of '45 for some reason. Therefore, this is the 493rd rod made in 1945/1946. Records show this rod was sold to A.W. Hodge on 6/4/1946.

This rod consists of medium-tempered cane with brown wraps. The grip measures 5.25" in length. Beautifully polished out nickel silver cap and ring over wood spacer. Size 15 and 9 ferrules could use minor cleaning to help ferrules sit completely. In my hand, the action is on the fast side of medium-fast with much of the action from the butt ferrule and above – a wonderful dry fly rod. The previous owner of this rod stated it was rebuilt in 1982. This has been fished lightly and cared for since that work. Includes the original bag and tube.

These shorter Thomas rods are increasingly difficult to find.