Vintage South Bend 359-9 Bamboo Fly Rod with green soft case. Repair needed

**How to Choose a Vintage South Bend 359-9 Bamboo Fly Rod with Green Soft Case (Repair Needed)**

For fly fishing enthusiasts and collectors, few items evoke nostalgia and craftsmanship like a vintage bamboo fly rod. The **South Bend 359-9** is a classic model that embodies the golden era of American tackle manufacturing. However, purchasing a used rod—especially one requiring repairs—demands careful evaluation. This guide will help you assess a **South Bend 359-9 bamboo fly rod** (with its iconic green soft case) to ensure authenticity, functionality, and restoration potential.

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### **1. Authenticity Check: Is It a Genuine South Bend 359-9?**
South Bend rods from the mid-20th century are highly collectible, but replicas and mislabeled models exist. Verify the following:
– **Labeling**: Look for the original decal or imprint near the grip, typically reading *”South Bend Cross Rod – Model 359-9″*. Fading or damage is common, but partial legibility is a good sign.
– **Ferrules**: Authentic 359-9 rods feature nickel-silver ferrules with a distinctive step-down design. Corrosion or mismatched metals suggest replacements.
– **Bamboo Quality**: High-grade Tonkin cane should show tight, evenly spaced nodes. Avoid rods with deep cracks or delamination.

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### **2. Assessing Damage & Repair Needs**
Since this rod requires repairs, inspect these critical areas:
– **Ferrules**: Loose or cracked ferrules are common. Check if they fit snugly; wobbling indicates wear.
– **Guides & Wraps**: Missing or corroded guides and frayed thread wraps need reconditioning. Original wraps often feature red or black tipping.
– **Cork Grip**: Cracks or crumbling cork can be replaced, but extensive damage lowers value.
– **Tip Section**: Bamboo tips are fragile. Flex the rod gently—excessive bending or “set” (permanent curvature) suggests weakness.

*Pro Tip*: Minor repairs (rewrapping guides, refinishing) are DIY-friendly, but major splits or ferrule replacements require a professional rod builder.

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### **3. The Green Soft Case: A Bonus or a Red Flag?**
The included green soft case adds historical charm, but examine it closely:
– **Material**: Original South Bend cases were canvas or vinyl. Modern replacements lack collector appeal.
– **Condition**: Mold, torn seams, or broken zippers reduce functionality. A salvageable case can be restored with careful cleaning.

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### **4. Why Choose This Model?**
The **359-9** is a 9-foot, medium-action rod designed for delicate dry-fly presentations. Its slower action suits small streams and traditional casting techniques. While not as rare as higher-end bamboo rods, its affordability and South Bend’s reputation make it a solid entry point for vintage tackle collectors.

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### **5. Price Considerations**
A **359-9 in need of repair** typically sells for **$100–$300**, depending on completeness. Fully restored models fetch $500+. Factor in restoration costs ($150–$400) if outsourcing labor.

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### **Final Verdict**
A **vintage South Bend 359-9 bamboo fly rod** is a rewarding project for anglers who appreciate history. Prioritize rods with intact ferrules and minimal bamboo splits. Pair it with a period-correct reel (like a Pflueger Medalist) for a classic setup.

*For more vintage tackle insights, follow KyleBooker’s #ThrowbackTackle series!*

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*Note: This article balances technical details with practical advice, ideal for a fishing blog partnered with KyleBooker. Let me know if you’d like adjustments!*