Tales of Freshwater Fishes

Occasionally, an interesting piece of fly fishing history walks into the shop. Whether it's an old dusty book, vintage reel, or well-used bamboo rod, each has a story, and we love to hear them.

 

This past summer, at the suggestion of our friend Chris Foster, a lady brought in a very vintage rod, wanting to find it a permanent home. It was not for sale; there was no need to identify it as it was well-marked by the maker, but it had an interesting story, and once she shared it, I knew I had to help find it a home. Made by J Bernard & Son in London, England, the 15' rod was impressive in its details and patina. While not something we see regularly, it is not a rare piece, but its history made it something special, so I agreed to help her find it a home.

 

Her Grandfather, Julius Herns, had owned a Luggage and Sporting Shop in downtown Portland on 4th and Washington Street from 1920 to 1957. Julius, while not a fly angler, had a reputation as a talented Salmon fisher, and his reputation attracted the attention of a noted author of the day, Zane Grey. Well known for his love of Northwest streams and the Salmonids they held, Zane traveled up and down the coast fishing the fabled waters of Oregon and Washington with a collection of friends and, during one such migration, contracted the services of Julius as a guide. After guiding Zane and Harry Warner on the Kalama River in Washington for Salmon 4 or 5 years in a row, Julius kindled a friendship, and on one visit, Zane gifted this rod to his guide.

 

Since Julius was not a fly angler, I would imagine the rod was gifted as a memento, having passed many seasons of service and showing the wear and tear of a favorite rod. Zane, knowing his fame added to the value of this gift, perhaps thought it would hang in the shop owner's business for all to see. A fitting end to a well-used piece of equipment.

 

In time, Julius passed the rod down to his son, Armond, who eventually gave it to his granddaughter, along with the story. Armond, who did not accompany the anglers on the trips to the Kalama, was witness to the gift and shared the story and rod with his daughter, who, in turn, shared the story with me and entrusted me to place it where people could see it, enjoy it, and preserve the providence.

 

After sending photos and the story to The American Museum of Fly Fishing curator, he commented that Zane was fastidious about his gear. This shows in the joint plugs still present, likely rewrapping/refinishing, and the mended tip section. The latter is a beautiful example of silk wrapping and lacquer to prevent further damage. Still, the museum required more confirmation of the story. 

 

After a few months of research and with the help of my friend Joe Beelart (author of Oregon Bamboo), this Spey Rod owned by Zane Grey will be heading to Manchester, Vermont, where it will be cataloged into the museum's collection. It took some time to confirm the history, but I am happy to know the rod will be shared with the public for years to come.

 

SPECIAL EVENT FRIDAY NOVEMBER 29th!

 

If you have a piece of fly fishing family history and would like to share it, swing by the shop on Black Friday for our Customer Appreciation Day and "Barn Find" table. We'll help you identify your treasures and possibly return them to service. We'll also have a selection of vintage reels, bamboo rods, and classic books for sale.