Antique fishing stuff
 

Does anyone collect or know someone that collects antique fishing stuff? A buddy just inherited a large selection of antique and older fishing gear and is feeling a little overwhelmed by the sheer volume of it, hopes to find someone who can explain some of it or make a offer on it. Located in Thorsby, unable to post pictures.

I have been getting a box of lures and rods every second year from friends and family members that have passed away. If I would know what i know now !
I would of bought less years ago .

I wouldnt call myself a collector, but I own/ use a lot of vintage reels. I'm not in your area but might be interested in seeing what you've got.

I collect antique fishing gear:)
Cat

I also collect but mostly specific vintage fly fishing items. As with any antique, the key is condition, condition, condition, and uniqueness. Not scratched or worn. Often when I am appraising "Grampa's" old bamboo rods for people as an example they are sometimes akin to tomato stakes. Things to ask of the item, does it come with the original packaging, labels, instructions, boxes tubes etc. Lots of variables Collectors look for very specific items often manufactured in specific places. Some were manufactured in extremely large volumes at the time (blue-collar) and so do not hold as much value There is a lot of research to be done.

But if it is a family heirloom to some people they are priceless. There are gems out there as I still find goodies and love looking at people's finds. Hoping this helps.

Very little old fishing gear comes with big antique value.

Maybe the odd very specific bamboo rod made by a certain artisan. Some of the hand carved spear fishing decoys have some value.

Old rods and reels generally don’t.

What sort of items are you referring to specifically?

The biggest problem in this collectors realm is it’s a small demographic. Those ACTIVE anglers with too much money usually just upgrades their fishing gear to newest and bestest. Rather than buy an antique that either can’t be used or if broke would make you sad means spending on actual fishing trips.

There are some hand carved bass and Muskie plugs too out there worth collecting.