Monday, March 26, 2012

A.SAURUS - The Original Tobi Pop - Iwashi Sardine (鰯), Spring Gear 2012

From Japan
178mm - 95g


Heddon Superlative Pal Spook #1 - Vintage Tubular Glass Topwater Rod

For some people, we love topwater largemouth bass action. 
There are so many ways to catch bass but I feel the funnest is the way my buddy Aki taught me back when he was living in USA.  He always used vintage fishing rods from companies such as Fenwick, Heddon, True Temper, Wright & McGill, and always had the model names and descriptions ready off the top of his head for discussion.  What a resource for items that have gone out of fashion and out of stock many years ago.

Much of the prime topwater gear made with slow taper and light to medium action that I like to use were made back in the 1950's through the 1970's.  All were made by American companies as they were on the forefront of rod material construction.  However over the years America has forgotten this past time and the technique.  Using big topwater twitch baits and prop baits, or crawlers with paddles that make noise and commotion was put to the side for the new and fashionable type products marketed as better and faster and more effective. 

Here is a chart of Heddon's Pal Spook rods within the 1950's:



I like old and productive along with fun and simple. 

America's fishing industry forgot about it.  The Japanese idolized it.  Much of my competition when it comes to purchasing vintage tackle comes from overseas.  Japan in particular where top prices are the norm and "mint" condition gear commands highest of collector prices.  The style is still forefront as is every other style however unlike the United States, Japan still designs for us "new" lures, rods, and reels that encapsulate what the great American past has already forgotten. 

In an ongoing search I have found one of the rods I feel is a true gem and "unicorn" for my collector (to be fished) lineup. 

Enter the Heddon "Superlative" Pal Spook #1 Rod:

























Cheers!

Fisherman's World, Quality Fishing Tackle - South Norwalk, CT - Spring 2012

To find a tackle shop that has the right gear and proper stock of old and new is a true challenge.  When I walked into Fisherman's World last Monday I realized I found one of my favorite tackle shops based on location and linage.  They stock what is necessary for a Northeast style salt fisherman. I picked up a Van Staal cap on this trip.  I also found a Puerto Rican restaurant next door that serves mofongo as well...although I didn't try, I will save that for next time.

There is a certain acid wrapped Lamiglas rod still in the shop asking for me to purchase.  Also was able to hold and examine a Daiwa Saltiga SA20 conventional reel.  What a great match up.  I hope to go back someday soon with my buddies and make it happen.  Polite and informative.  When there, ask for Nick.  He is a world of help. 

Location: Norwalk, Connecticut next to Veteran's Memorial Park on Fort Point Street.



















Here is the beautiful and historic surrounding neighborhood of South Norwalk: