Edward Barder Wallis Wizard 11’ 3-piece.

I was twenty six in 1991 and often made rods in ones and twos in my original workshop at North End, on the Hampshire-Berkshire borders. This one has some interesting points of difference. Most significantly, the split cane butt section has a very gradual, subtle swell. I was (and remain) an admirer of the classic Leonard fly rods and liked the lines of their swelled butts as they led into their handles. It’s a very natural, elegant look.

I later made two Chris Yates Merlins with swelled butts but this is the only Wallis Wizard I’ve made this way and it gives the rod an exceptionally crisp feel.

The action is otherwise very responsive and progressive, not remotely sloppy, with a fine tip and a smoothly bending mid section.

The rod had a personalised inscription which I have removed and re-inscribed the rod’s particulars in Indian ink. I have also applied a flawless coat of varnish to the whole rod to harmonise its finish.

It is in mint condition.

Specification.

Three sections, 11’ long, made from hand-made split cane in 1991.

The butt section has a unique, subtle swell leading into the handle top.

The 24” Flor grade cork handle has a trumpet shaped top and finely knurled nickel sliver fittings. The butt cap is engraved with the maker’s name.

The reinforced splint end suction ferrules were made by an ex-Hardy employee to a classic Hardy pattern. Their oxidised and lacquered finish remains perfect. They have their finely knurled aluminium and cork stoppers.

The stand-off intermediate rings are Sapphrite Laurels Europa hard chrome plated stainless steel with Amberfin butt and tip rings of the same make.

The hook keeper ring secured with a hand-forged nickel sliver strap is whipped in above the handle’s nickel sliver shoulder collar.

The whippings are Burgundy silk throughout, including the graduated extra-fine silk intermediates. The flawless finish is hand-applied marine grade yacht varnish.

The rod comes in its original bag, tailor made for it by Caroline Jones, who used a hand-wound Singer while sitting cross-legged on the floor. Zen and the art of rod bag making.

Suitable reel lines: 3-6 lbs BS

Casting weights up to 1 oz

Test curve: 1 lb

This is a lovely rod that its original owner tells me was used very little. Since it was made, thirty three years ago, it has aged far better than its maker!