Before making that purchase, consider who made the rod, and what rod action or taper design will fit your style of fishing ...
Ron Barch has designed and crafted split bamboo fly rods for Americans, Canadians, Europeans, as well as groups such as Trout Unlimited. He understands what a fly rod should accomplish and how to make one that meets the angler’s expectations.
Among these pages you will get insight into a craft turned art … so come and take an over-the-shoulder look at the world of split bamboo rods and rodmaking.
Before making that purchase, consider who made the rod, and what rod action or taper design will fit your style of fishing ...
At first, learning to make a split bamboo fly rod can be overwhelming but like eating an elephant, you do it one bite at a time ...
As a maker and collector of bamboo rods I'm always interested in the tall tales and campfire stories I hear about big fish and broken rods ...
I own some very nice cane rods but I suspect the Fish Hawk (Barch 88) will have the dirtiest cork. Brushy creek has tricos in the morning and bass crushing frogs and mice at dusk. This gal can fish all day. Kudos, my friend. I’m not blowing smoke, just glowing with joy.
- Brad Boone, elated client
I have always been inspired when I see one of your rods. Your overall contribution to the craft is monumental.
- Rob Hoffines, Rod Maker/Willamette, IL
Our family loves our two Kestrel rods. You're the best.
- Joe Reed, Grosse Pointe, Michigan
You are a very focused and intent fly fisher. And an outstanding caster!
- Troy Miller, Certified FFF casting instructor
I very much admired the looks of your rods.
- Luis Marden, author and angler
I recently returned from the Talachulitna River in Alaska and enjoyed all aspects of the trip including casting to and catching fine rainbows with the Para 17 rod that you recently built for me. A powerful and aesthetically pleasing rod if there ever was one.
- Charlie Butter, Ann Arbor, Michigan
The rod performed wonderfully and took 5 wild fish, the largest 17 inches. I always use a 16 foot leader in our gin clear water and the rod was turning it over fine, no problem. Thanks again.
- Jeff Wheeldon, Rod Maker, Devon, England
Rod #1 - Cosmetics were great. Smooth ferrules. Rod #2 - I have lots of rods but none casts as sweet, yet authoritative, as the Kestrel. Rod #3 - You have outdone yourself. I believe you have accurately duplicated the older Kestrel beautifully, except the cosmetics on the new one are more stunning. I am a very happy camper.
- Bo Cash, Guide and Outfitter, Morganton, NC
The Catskill Fly Fishing Center and Museum acknowledges master cane rod builder, Ron Barch, as instructor at the CFFC&M Cane Rod Builders School.
- Miriam Stone, Past President and Trustee