Came across an older 2- piece bamboo fly with no manufacture labels or line weight on it. I restored the cork and placed guides on it. I would like to use for stocked trout/ or panfish. I have been trying to use 6-8 weight lines on it, what I have at hand, but I do not seen to throw as well as I would like. The 7 weighted forward sinking tip line threw like a ballon in a strong wind. The best line is a level 6 weight Aircell that must be 20 years old, that my wife found in cleaning out storeage builings. Wondering if any knew a method to match the line weight to bamboo rods. I was looking for something better than trail and error.

I am gonna go with trial and error. If that level six line worked, I would suggest getting some el cheapo level six or DT six to trry out. Interesting that the 7 weight line was so wimpy but six weight line worked better. Sounds like that six weight line was actually heavier than the 7 if I am reading this right.

the sinking tip weighted 7 was hard to push, like you need more arm strength.I am little hesitant to flex the rod with a great deal of arm stregth. An 8 weight fell WF feels big, it throws well. Has a little rod slap, that I do not get with the level 6 thanks for the advice

You can't 'push' a bamboo rod. You most likely have a rod that was made to cast a #5 DT line. Try that, s.l.o.w your cast down, and enjoy the wonders of casting.

Since the rod is unmarked, it may be as light as a 4wt, but I seriously doubt it's made for a 7 wt.

I have a 7 wt 2 pc with 2 matching tips that I built a number of years ago if you want a bamboo fly rod for bass fishing. Your purchase will serve you best for dry fly casting.

JR

So, who on this site makes bamboo fly rods?

Me. I haven't made one in a few years. Seems with the economy and the re-birth of 'glass rods, fewer people are interested in 'boo.

JR