Bamboo Fly Rods: Rick Robbins Custom Handcrafted Maker Review

https://www.rickrobbinsbambooflyrods.com/

Key Takeaways

• Handcrafted bamboo fly rods by Rick Robbins are not just fishing tools, but works of art, steeped in tradition and craftsmanship.

• Rick Robbins has been perfecting the art of rod making since 1972, providing anglers with exceptional quality and performance.

• Choosing a Robbins bamboo fly rod means opting for a personal touch, where each rod is tailored to the individual’s fishing style and preferences.

Rick Robbins: A Modern Maestro of Traditional Rod Making

Handcrafted bamboo fly rods like those made by Rick Robbins are a testament to the timeless connection between angler, tool, and nature. They are built to last, designed to perform, and finished with an elegance that most others can’t match. Therefore, they’re cherished by anglers who appreciate the fine balance of tradition and performance.

Rick Robbins, hailing from Lexington, Virginia, has been handcrafting bamboo fly rods since 1972. His journey began in the 1960s with his first credit purchase—a bamboo rod that ignited a lifelong passion. Robbins’ dedication to the craft has made him a modern maestro of traditional rod making. His rods are not just tools; they’re heirlooms, each with a story woven into its fibers.

His rods have been tempered on the rivers of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, the Salmon Rivers Series being a notable example of his work. Each rod from Robbins’ workshop is a celebration of the bamboo fly rod’s heritage, designed with the expertise of a seasoned angler and the hands of a master craftsman.

Rick Robbins Top Of The Line Fly Rod Models

Within the realm of handcrafted bamboo fly rods, certain models stand out for their impeccable design and performance. Rick Robbins offers a range of models, each with unique characteristics tailored to the discerning angler’s needs. His rods are a symphony of function and form, designed to enhance the fishing experience in every possible way.

From the swelled butt designs that provide a robust backbone for fighting vigorous fish, to the delicate tips allowing for precision casting, Robbins’ models cater to both the aesthetic and practical desires of fly fishers. Whether you’re navigating the challenging currents of a mountain stream or the vast expanses of a tranquil lake, there’s a Robbins rod that feels like it was made just for you.

The attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the rod, from the selection of the bamboo itself to the finishing touches on the hardware and wraps. It’s this meticulous craftsmanship that sets Rick Robbins’ rods apart from the rest.

Here are my favorites for the smaller waters I usually fish:

1. The Little Rivers Series

Designed for the small, headwaters stream of the east, it’s no wonder these are a favorite – I fished the limestone creeks of Pennsylvania in my youth. These are for IV weight lines and built built to deliver the precision demanded of accurate dry fly presentation on small waters.  Robbins ranks the taper of this series as one of the most difficult.

Models available in: 7’ 3-pc for IV   6.5’ 2-pc for IV   7’ 2-pc for IV   7.5 2-pc for IV   8’ 3-pc for IV

2. The Headwaters Series

Inspired by native brook trout streams of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, these rods are specialty pieces designed for the tight spaces and small, colorful trout found there. These short rods help keep you out of the bushy undergrowth to present your fly to native fish in narrow runs and small pools.  

Models available in: 6’ 3-pc for IV   6.5’ 3-pc for V    

3. The Holy Grail

Perhaps Rick’s most versatile rod.  Designed as an 8’ 3-pc for IV, Rick incorporates his compound progressive taper for the lower portion.  The result is a powerful eight-footer for IV, but is versatile enough to throw III, V, and VI weight lines as well.

Models available in: 8’ 3-pc for IV

4. Custom Models

Of course, understanding that each angler has a unique style and set of preferences, Rick Robbins offers custom variations of his rods. He will work with you to design and craft a one-of-a kind custom rod for the discriminating angler allowing each to be involved in the creation of their rod, ensuring that every aspect from the action to the aesthetics is precisely what they desire.

For those who want a rod that truly reflects their personality and fishing style, a custom Robbins bamboo fly rod is the ultimate choice. It’s a collaborative process where the angler’s vision is brought to life through Rick Robbins’ expert hands.

Features of Rick Robbin’s “Top Of The Line” Models

https://www.rickrobbinsbambooflyrods.com/

Using Your Rick Robbins Bamboo Fly Rod

Once you’ve chosen your Rick Robbins bamboo fly rod, the next step is to pair it with the right fly line. This is crucial, as the line weight and type need to complement the rod’s action to ensure optimal performance. With the right combination, you’ll be casting with precision and grace, making every moment on the water even more rewarding.

Matching Your Rod with the Right Fly Line

Selecting the right fly line for your bamboo rod involves considering the rod’s length, action, and the type of fishing you’ll be doing. Robbins’ rods are typically matched with a double taper line, which offers the delicate presentation needed for the gentle action of bamboo. However, depending on your specific rod and fishing conditions, a weight forward line may also be suitable.

Tips for Mastery on the Water

When fishing with a bamboo fly rod, remember to let the rod do the work. The natural elasticity of bamboo allows for a smooth, effortless casting stroke. Practice a slow, rhythmic motion to feel the rod load and unload, which is the key to achieving distance and accuracy with these traditional rods.

Additionally, because bamboo rods are more delicate than their modern counterparts, it’s important to avoid high-sticking and to fight fish with the butt of the rod, not the tip. This will protect the integrity of your rod while providing a thrilling and effective angling experience.

With these tips in mind, using a Rick Robbins bamboo fly rod can be an incredibly satisfying experience, connecting you to the timeless traditions of fly fishing while allowing you to create your own stories on the water.

https://www.rickrobbinsbambooflyrods.com/

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How Long Does a Custom Rick Robbins Rod Take to Make?

The creation of a custom bamboo fly rod is a time-intensive process. On average, it can take several months to complete, depending on the complexity of the design and the current workload. Remember, quality takes time, and a custom rod from Rick Robbins is worth the wait.

How Does the Custom Ordering Process Work?

Ordering a custom rod from Rick Robbins starts with a conversation. You’ll discuss your fishing style, preferences, and any specific requirements you have for your rod. Rick will then provide guidance on the best options for you. Once the details are finalized, you’ll place your order including a $350 deposit and Rick will begin the meticulous process of crafting your rod.

Throughout the process, you may receive updates on the progress of your rod. Upon completion, your rod will be carefully packaged in his signature heavy aluminum and brass tube and shipped to your doorstep, ready for its maiden voyage on the water.

What Are the Price Ranges for Rick Robbins Bamboo Fly Rods?

The price of a Rick Robbins bamboo fly rod varies depending on the model and the level of customization. Top Of The Line models start in the range of several thousand dollars, while custom rods can be significantly higher in price. Rick’s First Cane models, designed as an entry point for first time bamboo anglers, start at $995.