Is this tackle left in the past and are they fishing today? Yes, it’s about an ordinary folding bamboo rod! It would seem, only recently, some half a century ago (and even back in the times called “perestroika”), the bamboo fishing rod was firmly established in its niche, among others, from other materials.
A bit of history
At that time, import telescopic (sliding) fishing rods made of plastic only began to leak into the fishing market. But Soviet-made, for example, Severodonetsk PO Fiberglass, were in terrible shortage - you can’t buy it. But even at first they were perceived by the fishermen with some apprehension, mistrust, and only then (for a rather short period of time) actually completely replaced the bamboo.
In today's realities, even if you really try, it’s quite difficult to find a person who uses this rarity. And by the way, a bamboo fishing rod is a simple, interesting tackle, which in a number of options can still show a wonderful result. And make your fishing lucky and catchy in terms of trophies!
Positive sides
In fact, bamboo fishing rods have their positive aspects. Firstly, bamboo is a natural, environmentally friendly material, which is also strong enough to withstand, so to speak, fishing loads. But elastic. Secondly, the bamboo fishing rod is light, straight, it is convenient to hook it. Thirdly, such tackle is relatively inexpensive, simple and durable to use, and fishing on a bamboo fishing rod is an exciting experience. And if you wish, it is possible to change the connection and transfer the rings to different sections along the length - as you prefer.
disadvantages
Of course, a bamboo fishing rod has its drawbacks (as, however, with any tackle - because in the world there is nothing ideal). Firstly, sometimes the bamboo dries up and small cracks appear, reducing the strength of the rod. Secondly, fasteners are prone to loosening, and if the bamboo gets wet, it will take a long time to dry. And thirdly, such a rod is less compact when transporting from place to place than a sliding, plastic one.
How relevant is a bamboo fishing rod now?
Naturally, the fisherman (especially the beginner) will have a question about whether this tackle is relevant today and whether it is worth choosing for fishing. We can say with confidence: yes! From the point of view of ease of operation, it is the “bamboo” that occupies a leading position. It is both easier and cheaper, and the mounts are easy to install for fishing from the shore.
And if you catch from a boat, then the hand does not get tired. In addition, it is worth noting that fishing on telescopic gear in some reservoirs in the middle lane of our country is actually unrealistic, since the risks are generally that they remain “horseless”, that is, spoil the gear. In such cases, a bamboo fishing rod helps a lot. The main thing is to choose it correctly.
How to choose
Firstly, the rod itself must have a circular cross section. Also, there should be no cracks on the material - look carefully at the time of purchase. Secondly, on the ready-made gear, the fastenings of the parts are installed rigidly, and the assembled fishing rod should not creak and swing from side to side, the rings in the joints should not be scrolled. The color of the material should be light brown. And if you bought a whole bamboo billet (and this happens), then entrust it to cutting a professional - a more experienced fisherman or master, do not do it yourself, as you can greatly damage the strength of the tackle.
Ode to the Bamboo
In general, look: this is how grandfathers and fathers were fishing, and all this may not seem quite modern. After all, there are more technologically advanced materials for the manufacture of current rods. But for the sake of justice, we also note: if you accidentally step on the segment of the "telescope", then at least the knee will have to be replaced. And the "bamboo" withstands such a fleeting effect on the material. And what can I say, holding such tackle in my hand is a pleasure, because the material itself is natural and pleasant to the touch.
The sensations of a wide range, as they say, and “chemistry” (in the sense of all modern high-tech materials) are “smoking bamboo” here, sorry for the pun. Not for nothing that some avid fishermen with many years of experience, having abandoned the “bamboo”, after a while acquire it again and fish successfully. Among the pros in this industry, there is such an opinion: reflecting on the water surface, this material is least likely to scare prey, in comparison with modern telescopic rods. Whether this is scientifically true is unknown, but practice is a great and undeniable thing!
Where can I fit the old bamboo fishing rod
Well, if the rod is out of order, then you should not throw it away. Bamboo, even a little cracked, is an excellent material for decoration. Having cut the components of the unused gear, you can get: photo frames, table cover, tableware, legs for decorative furniture and many more interesting things - you just have to let go of your imagination. Yes, and for hand-made creativity this is excellent material - your children will definitely be happy!