Largemouth Bass Lineup

Largemouth Bass Lineup

Thursday, February 26, 2015

Cortland Pro Crest, A Rod No One Wanted?

From 1965 to around 1970, Cortland released a line of fiberglass fly rods called Pro Crest.  These rods ranged in size from 6'6" to 8'6" and covered line weights from 5 to 8.  They didn't make large numbers of them, but they were good rods that sold for around thirty dollars.  After the Pro Crest line came the Crown line which was followed by the FR-2000 line in the early to mid 70's.

I have been a fan of Cortland rods ever since I bought my first one twenty years ago.  Since being introduced into the magical world of fiberglass fly rods a few years ago, I have been looking for and collecting these older Cortland rods.  Last year I managed to grab a Pro Crest 7'6" 6 weight for around $40.00 on eBay.  It was in great condition with very little use.  I figured the price was right so I went ahead and got it.  Fast forward to earlier this month when another Pro Crest appears on eBay. This one was a 8'6" version recommended for 6/7 weight line with minimal wear and tear.  It was listed at $19.99 with $5.95 shipping.  I watched, waited and plotted until the bidding ended.  I ended up winning the auction as the one and only bidder.  I could not believe my luck.  No one bid on it?!? I am shocked.  I can't believe it still.  When you think about it, I paid less than this rod originally sold for however, to be fair, it did not have the rod tube or bag with it.  Regardless, what a great score.  As stated, it has minimal wear and tear.  All the guides have tight wraps and none are dried out.  The cork has some soiling and there are some mild blemish marks but nothing that detracts from the overall beauty or integrity of the rod.  Another fantastic rod added to my ever growing vintage glass collection.  Glass is not dead.  It is alive and well in this house.











7 comments:

  1. It's guys like you that keep the past in the present and in a way, preserve.

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  2. The reel seat looks just like the seats on Garcia rods of similar age. I wonder if one company made them for the other.

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  3. This rod looks to be in top shape. A nice find.
    My first fly rod was a Cortland FR2000, a 7ft 5-6wt. I still have that rod.

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  4. Again, nice score! When do you have time to fish all of these rods you are collecting?

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    1. Hi Mel,

      I can't fish right now but when I do I will rotate them in and out. I do have a large collection now but it's fun and I enjoy the hunt. Come East and you can try a few out!

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  5. I realize this is a rather old post, but I thought I would inform you that I have a Pro-Crest also. But mine is 9' and rated for 8-9# line. So they they did come little larger than you stated. Just an FYI. Nice rods, by the way.

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  6. Just an FYI, I happen to have a Pro-Crest that is 9' and rated for 8-9# line. I noticed you mentioned that they only went up to 8' 6". Just thought I would share my limited info.

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