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10’ 3/2 H.S. “Pinky” Gillum Bamboo Steelhead/Salmon Fly Rod – Custom Built #585 – c. 1940
Manufacturer: H.S. Gillum®
4450.00
Product Available
It is a pleasure to offer this spectacular steelhead/salmon fly rod by “Pinky” Gillum.  Gillum rods are known for their powerful, crisp actions.  In fact, Gillum believed that rods would get softer over time with use, so he created them with this in mind.  Because of this design philosophy, his salmon/steelhead rods are particularly powerful.  For the angler who likes a fast action, powerful rod to chase big, anadromous fish, a Gillum is a top choice.  Finding one, however, is not always an easy task, since his total rod output during his career is estimated at somewhere near 1,000 rods.

The rod offered here is simply amazing.  It is a casting machine in a 10’ 3/2 configuration with detachable fighting butt.  The rod handles both 8 and 9 weight lines with refined authority – the line gliding in rhythm like a Viennese waltz.  A very good friend and I had an absolute blast casting this rod.  The rod is powerful, yet smooth.  It is equipped with a set of Perfection guides, black oxidized nickel silver step-down ferrules, an 8” half wells cork grip, and a screw-locking reel seat with a stunning curly Spanish cedar insert and 3.5” detachable aluminum fighting butt.  The butt section is correctly branded by Pinky’s hand on two flats, “H.S. Gillum” / “Custom Built.”  All four sections carry the correct matching serial number, 585, which places the build date in the 1940s.  All sections are full length at 40 ½ inches each and perfectly straight.  All guides and wraps are tight, and the ferrule fit is excellent.  The rod has seen honorable use and proper care.  Two silk wraps have been replaced, and there are a couple of minor scuffs to the finish on the butt section female ferrule.  The varnish shows its age with a few scuffs as well, though nothing requiring attention.  The cork shows some soiling and light ridging from use and has not been cleaned.  The cane is structurally sound with no issues.  The ferrules are sizes 19 and 12 (in 64th of an inch), and the rod weighs 7.85 ounces without fighting butt, which adds 3.10 ounces.  Completing the rod is the original bag and aluminum case.  This rod has history, character, and flair.  If I had to pick a rod to represent Gillum’s mastery of the craft, it would be one of his salmon/steelhead rods.  They are impressive and built to perform at a high level.

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To purchase this rod, please contact us at leonarddatabase@antiquerodandreels.com with your preferred payment method. 
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