Split Bamboo Fly Rod Classes
However the term might be defined, I am not a master rod builder.
I'm a good rod builder who would like to show you how to build good rods.
I'm glad I took a class when and where I did.
In September, 2021 I had a 5-1/2 day class with Harry Boyd in Winnsboro, Louisiana.
For $1600 I came home with a wealth of knowledge, a skill set and a 2/1** rod based on the Payne 101 taper.
It was a reasonable distance from home, 6 hours or so. Lodging and meals were quite affordable.
Admittedly, I wanted a class in Fly Fishing Country and absorb all the history and mystique of those regions.
The Catskills were my first choice, but the wait was around a year.
I next contacted Alder Creek Angling because I had an awareness of Ron Barch.
Again, long wait.
I looked into a few other "traditional" locations, but then, sensibly, I considered dollars and logistics - travel, class costs (not cheap), lodging, time away from home and all that.
Note ** 2/1 means a two piece rod with a butt section and one tip section. No extra tip.
3/2 means a three piece rod with a butt section, mid section, tip section and an extra tip.
My intention is to offer classes geared towards the 9 million residents of North Texas.
Denton, my hometown, is at the top of the DFW metro area.
Why Not Invite the World?
World, you are invited.
Notions:
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Classes will be six days, consecutive or otherwise.
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You will eventually leave with a 2/1 split bamboo fly rod (I suggest a tbo Payne 100 or 101).
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As I write this (July, 2026) class cost, including rod, will be $1200.
Advantages:
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If you live within a reasonable distance of my shop, you can be home every night.
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If you would like to attend every other Sunday, or some such altered schedule, I can work it out. I'd prefer Mondays, but then I don't have a real job.
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You don't have to make a complete rod - if you only want blanks, blanks with ferrules or reel seat and grip - that can be accommodated.
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One-on-one instruction
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After your class is over, and you decide to pursue the craft, I'll be endlessly available for any questions and problem resolution/assistance even if I have to sheepishly contact a colleague for help.
Disadvantages:
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Again, I am not a rod making master and I don't pretend to be. Try the Catskills.
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My shop is small, I mean small - 12' x 8'. But it functions fully.
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The class won't be in a quaint mountain village nestled next to a babbling brook.
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Some people find rod making is tedious as hell and the initial start up costs (at least $1500) can be more than a person might want to spend.
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I'll think of other disadvantages.
SALES PITCH
The first person to attend can take the class and take home a 2/1 rod for $600.
Why so awfully darn cheap, Mr. Grassland Fly Rods?
Well, I might find out this is not my cup of tea or I'm not any good at instruction or I miss my solitude or...or...or...
...and I might call it quits.
In any case, $600 is the cost of my most basic rod, so I not giving anything away except my time.
Not Quite a Sales Pitch
If you would like to take the class and glean most of the skills needed to continue rod making
and
donate the rod to Reel Recovery
The class will be $600.