The Paul H. Young 7’6″ H.D.H. Short Taper fly rod is a classic bamboo (cane) fly rod, highly regarded among vintage tackle collectors and traditional fly anglers. Here’s what you should know about it:
Key Features:
– Maker: Paul H. Young Co. (Detroit, Michigan, USA) – a legendary mid-20th-century rod builder known for high-quality bamboo rods.
– Model: “Short Taper” (a design optimized for shorter casts and delicate presentations).
– Length: 7 feet 6 inches (a versatile size for small streams and tight conditions).
– Line Weight: H.D.H. (Hexagon Double Tapered, Heavy) – roughly equivalent to a modern 5 or 6-weight line.
– Construction: Split bamboo (cane), likely with intermediate wraps and a traditional finish.
– Condition: Since it’s listed as used, check for cracks, repairs, varnish issues, or missing parts (ferrules, guides, etc.).
– Origin: The mention of Japan could mean it was owned/used there, but the rod itself is American-made.
Collectibility & Value:
– Paul H. Young rods are highly collectible, especially in good condition.
– Prices vary widely ($500–$2,500+), depending on:
– Condition (original wraps, varnish, straightness).
– Rarity (some Short Tapers are scarcer than others).
– Provenance (if it has a known history or original tube/case).
– Japanese collectors often pay a premium for vintage American bamboo rods.
What to Check if Buying:
1. Ferrules: Ensure they fit snugly without cracks.
2. Action: Flex the rod gently to test for stiffness/damage.
3. Wrappings: Look for restored vs. original wraps (affects value).
4. Label/Stamp: Original maker’s markings increase authenticity.
Use Case:
– Ideal for small-stream trout fishing with dry flies or light nymphs.
– A slower, more deliberate casting rhythm suits bamboo rods.
If you’re considering buying or selling, consulting a vintage tackle specialist or checking past auctions (e.g., Lang’s, eBay sold listings) can help gauge value. Would you like help appraising it further?
The Paul H. Young 7’6″ H.D.H. Short Taper fly rod is a highly regarded vintage fly fishing rod, known for its craftsmanship and performance. Here’s what you should know about it:
Key Features:
– Length & Line Weight: 7 feet 6 inches, designed for an H.D.H. (DT6 or WF6) line—ideal for delicate presentations and medium-sized trout streams.
– Action: The “Short Taper” suggests a progressive action with a softer tip, making it excellent for dry flies and light nymphing.
– Construction: Likely built with split bamboo (cane), typical of high-quality vintage rods.
– Origin: While Paul H. Young was a U.S. maker (Michigan), some rods were exported or later found in Japan, where vintage American tackle is highly collectible.
Condition & Value (If Used):
– Check for: Original wraps, ferrules (should fit snugly), varnish condition, and any repairs.
– Collectibility: Paul H. Young rods are sought after; a used model in good condition could range from $500–$1,500+, depending on rarity and provenance.
– Japanese Market: Vintage U.S. tackle often fetches higher prices in Japan due to demand.
Recommendations:
1. Verify Authenticity: Look for maker’s marks, serial numbers, or labels.
2. Inspect Carefully: Check for cracks, delamination, or loose guides.
3. Research Model: The “Short Taper” was a popular design; exact model variations affect value.
Would you like help identifying specific markings or determining fair market value?