Last year I liberated my dad’s old Horrocks-Ibbotson fiberglass fly rod from a dusty corner of the boat shed. [I'd say "borrowed" but that implies the intent to return it.] Since then it has become my favorite stick for trout fishing. I’m pretty sure it was a low end rod in its day, but it just has a great feel to it for trouting applications. Plus, at only 7 1/2 feet, it’s much easier to wield on the small brush lined streams I frequent before the stripers show up.
I’m having a hard time finding quality information about the manufacturer, though. So far this is the most relevent link I’ve found. If anyone knows more about the company and its rods, shoot me an email or leave a comment.
Pete,
Try http://clarksclassicflyrodforum.yuku.com/
I think they have some Horrocks-Ibbotson info. If not someone over there might know some history.
My ex wife has a Granger fiberglass rod with the best action that I lost in the divorce. It was her Dad’s so I couldn’t bring myself….
Thanks Murdock, that’s a great place to start.
Pete, You left a comment on Glassy Waters. Hi! I have over a dozen H-I Glass rods. Most are early models. Finding info on H-I glass is a huge challenge. Finding old catalogs is a choir and there is little to no info on the web. Another great source is a forum I am a member of: http://fiberglassflyrodders.yuku.com/directory
If I had to quess I would say late 60′s. It looks like a fine rod and is in good shape. I have 2 seven and a half footers and they too are my favorites. I like to throw a 5WF of 6DT with mine. If you find any info post it and I will do the same.
Thom, many thanks for getting back to me and for pointing my to the fiberglass forum.
Will do if I find anything.
Pete, I totally agree with the size on the trout rod for little streams. I use a TFO 7′ 3 wt. for all the overgrown streams out here in Utah. More often than not, I find myself doing a sort of slingshot cast (where i pinch the hook on the fly and pull the line back like a bow and arrow) under the brush that overhangs the best holes. Most people overlook such small water, but I have had not only great success, but serious action and often dinner. Cheers Pete.
Chris I use the slingshot cast quite a bit on one of the streams I fish here, particularly the section where wading has been banned and you have to bow and arrow it between growth along the bank. I haven’t tried it for stripers though. May work when bluefish are going wild all around the boat.
I have a Horrocks & Ibbotson rod. The Model is Princes and 7ft. long, can anyone tell me the history and value of this rod? Thank you and I look forward to your replies.
Jim, I wish I knew. I’ve been trying to find out myself but I can’t find much. If you get ahold of any information on the company, I’d love to know.
I have a HORROCKS-IBBOTSON Co./BRAURE KILL/THOMSON CANE Fly Rod I inheadited and would like to sell if you know of buyer please contact me.
Paul, i would be interested in buying your H & I fly rod, is it still available?
Thanks
Chief
have a 8 1/2 foot 4 1/2 oz h&i fly rod in cavas sack case in good cond. if anyones intrested please contact me
When did H-I Introduce their 3093-F Compact Rod? I am trying to date some advertising I picked up. Thanks.
I have my great gramps HI rod ( 7 ft Berkshire )and Hendryx reel ( Pat mar 20? ) hard to read. All is in great shape. Interested in Putting it on the wall. Is it worth alot?
I have a split bamboo HI fly rod Mohawk model in good to excellent condition. 7ft. in length. Having trouble here in new jersey and on the web getting info on it. Can anybody out there help? Its worth a six pack to me. Please contact me.
I have a 1408 Hi Mohawk 8′ rod I “borrowed” from my Dad. Seems to be a great trout rod and would like to know more about it. If any one has any info please email me. tdetering@rdoffutt.com Thanks.