Chris Yates Barbus Maximus № 10 made by Edward Barder c1991.

This is my favourite MK I Chris Yates Barbus Maximus. If I wasn’t its maker, I’d buy it. This rare example really is superb. Such immodesty is a little wearying but as I was photographing it in the sunshine today, I felt that the Edward Barder of 1991 was surely a skillful fellow and this fat old bloke with the camera -well, he says he’s Edward Barder. Who knows? I’d dearly like to keep this rod to fish for chub and assorted other whoppers in the Thames but I can’t. It’s all about self-denial for us old artisans, see, so why don’t you buy it and tell me all about the joy it brings you.

Here are its particulars:

11’9″ long in the 2-pieces + detachable handle, made in 1991 by Edward Barder at The New Barn, North End, Near Newbury, Berkshire.

The rod was ordered by Mr George Morris on the 5^th December 1990.

The rod is made from split cane throughout, including the detachable handle. The middle section is hollow-built.

The 27” long handle has a ⅞” diameter turned from Flor grade (the best) cork with a classic ‘onion’ shaped top, alloy sliding reel fittings and a tapered alloy butt cap with a red 1¼” rubber button.

The butt ring has a grey semi-opaque Agate centre set in a German silver frame (only 21 of which were available, one for each of the rods in this first limited edition) and the hard-chromed stainless steel bridge rings were made and supplied directly by Hardy’s of Alnwick. The German silver tip ring has a reddish brown agate centre.

The bronzed splint end suction ferrules were made by Beatson’s of Sheffield (handle-to-middle) and Pezon et Michel (middle-to-tip) and retain their original snug fit. The original hand turned hardwood and cork ferrule stoppers remain in place.

There is a neat hook keeper is whipped into the mid section male ferrule. Above the handle, the inscription is written onto the split cane in Indian ink.

All whippings are burgundy (ex-Constable of Bromley) Pearsall’s silk, with no tippings or intermediates. The split cane is a very clean medium caramel colour, and was made from exceptional bamboo.

The rod’s finish as absolutely flawless hand-applied marine grade varnish.

The bag was tailor made by hand on an old Singer for the rod from best quality ex-Constable of Bromley fabric and has a pocket in the flap for the ferrule stoppers.

The rod is rated for reel lines of 4 – 8 lbs BS and has a quick, progressive through action. It would be suitable for refined barbel fishing, chub, tench and big perch.

These numbered MK I Chris Yates barbel rods don’t come along often. Hardly surprising. Only 21 were made. This rod will bring its new owner immense pleasure.