Thomas, F.E. - 8' 0" 4wt. Special

For your consideration is an F.E. Thomas Special bamboo fly rod. This is an 8' 0" 3/2 4wt weighing 4.05 ounces on my scale. All sections are full length and straight.

This rod consists of mildly tempered cane with deep brown wraps. At the male ferrules, there are three decorative wraps each with four turns and red tipping on the ferrule wrap. The cigar grip measures 6" in length. Cap and ring over walnut spacer. The wood spacer has a few indentions. Butt cap is stamped "FE Thomas, Special, Bangor ME" on the side and 'dot' 77 on the end of the butt cap. Per the Thomas ledger, this was the 77th rod made in 1938 and sold to Abercrombie & Fitch on April 2, 1938. Ferrules are 10/16 with the mid section close to a half size so I rounded up to 16. Ferrules seat smoothly with one tip less smooth but fully seating and firm. In my hand, the action is medium-fast and for some might be suited for a 5-weight also at the proper distance. This rod was refinished. The varnish work is beautiful. Original bag, tag, and tube.