Barder Rod Co Wallis Wizard whole & split cane Avon rod.
One of only two special Wizards. Made in 1991. In mint condition.
£2,000.00
In 1991 I obtained Cliff Constable’s inventory of machinery and materials. The stock included two dozen superb pieces of Tonkin bamboo for whole cane butt sections.
I was so pleased to have some really good bamboo of this size that I made two special Wallis Wizards. One is owned by a member of the Golden Scale Club. The other one, this rod, was made for a great friend of mine. During the tempering and straightening process, I finished the butts of these two rods with alternating bands of dark straw and richly flamed colour. The result, as you can see from the accompanying pictures, is very striking and unique.
This rod has a refined Avon-style action. The sensitive tip bends smoothly into the resilient middle section and the butt has both power and the spring that only whole cane can provide. It is designed to be used with reel lines of 4 -6 lbs BS and hook lengths down to 2 lbs. It’s very versatile, just as an Avon rod should be.
The specification is exceptional and no trouble or expense was spared in its construction. I look at it now with nostalgia and some envy of the twenty six year old I was when I built it. Our whole cane butt Avons are very rare and sought after. This one is extra special in every detail.
Specification.
Flamed whole Tonkin cane butt, hand made split cane middle & tip sections. All sections are perfectly straight.
The blued splint end ferrules were made by an ex-Hardy ferrule maker. They retain their original firm fit and their hand turned Olive wood and cork stoppers.
The perfect 22″ Flor grade cork handle has a flared top. The butt cap and sliding bands are made from finely knurled and beautifully detailed nickel sliver. The butt cap is fitted with its original red rubber button.
The rings are hard chrome plated stand-off pattern with Amberfin butt and tip rings. There is a hook keeper ring above the handle.
The rod is whipped throughout with burgundy silk, tipped scarlet at the rings and ferrules.
The Indian ink inscription is: The Wallis Wizard. Made by Edward Barder. 1991.
I have removed the original owner’s name and over-varnished the rod so that it has a flawless marine grade varnish finish.
The rod comes in its original tailored bag with bronzed press stud fastenings and a pocket in the flap for the ferrule stoppers.