Bruce & Walker & 13′ 6＂ BRUCE 3piece Cordon Bleu double handed salmon fly rod…
Kyle Booker The Bruce & Walker 13’6″ BRUCE 3-piece Cordon Bleu double-handed salmon fly rod is a classic and highly regarded rod designed for spey casting and salmon fishing. Here’s what you should know about it:
Key Features:
– Length & Action: 13’6″ (ideal for spey casting) with a progressive action, offering power for long casts while maintaining sensitivity for presentation.
– Construction: 3-piece design (portable yet robust), likely built with high-quality carbon fiber or composite materials (common in Bruce & Walker rods).
– Line Weight: Likely rated for a 9–11 spey line (common for salmon rods of this length), but exact specs may vary. Check the rod markings or original paperwork.
– Cordon Bleu Series: A premium line from Bruce & Walker, known for refined craftsmanship and performance.
– Double-Handed Design: Optimized for two-handed spey casting techniques, making it ideal for large rivers like the Scottish Tay or Norwegian salmon beats.
Reputation:
– Bruce & Walker (a UK-based rod maker) is respected for traditional yet high-performance rods, especially among Atlantic salmon anglers.
– The Cordon Bleu series often features upgraded components (e.g., Fuji guides, premium cork grips) and smoother actions compared to entry-level models.
Potential Age & Value:
– If vintage (1980s–2000s), it may have collector appeal. Newer models retain good resale value (£400–£800+ depending on condition).
– Check for serial numbers or labels to confirm era. Older rods may have fiberglass blends; newer ones are likely full carbon.
Things to Verify:
1. Condition: Look for cracks, guide wear, or delamination (common in old rods).
2. Original Tube/Sock: Adds value if included.
3. Line Recommendations: Test with modern spey lines (e.g., Skagit or Scandi heads) to find the best match.
Modern Comparisons:
Similar contemporary rods include the Sage X Spey or Hardy Zephrus, but the Cordon Bleu has a classic feel favored by traditionalists.
If you’re buying/selling, research recent auctions (e.g., eBay, Spey Pages forums) for pricing. If you’re fishing it, pair it with a quality reel (e.g., Hardy Marquis 11 or modern large-arbor options) and a floating/sinking tip line for versatility.
Would you like help identifying its exact era or optimal line setup?