The dream began in 2002 when Lee Orr and I began flaming the culm of idea and possibility. Bamboo fly rods were cool, but how much more if we could make them ourselves? Using raw West Virginia steel bar stock we made forms. We began collecting reel seat wood while grouse hunting around the area. We experimented with tapers to find those we liked best.
All Vandalia Rods are uniquely designed. Tapers are made to suit the angler, silk wrappings and reel seat wood to your specs. The nickel silver hardware is turned right in the shop where the cane is split. Hand twisted wire guides are also an option.
These rods have a soul. They are made to be fished. Rods for those who travel 1000 miles then hike another 10 into a remote creek to experience the coldwater wilderness in its essence. A custom cane rod enhances your experience. If you fish for the sake of just catching fish, then you may be best suited to fish a discount "pole". If you fish for the total experience, then it may be time to try a bamboo rod.
Pricing is set by demand. Simple economics. It takes a very long time to make a quality, completely customized rod. If you are looking for quick turnaround you should look elsewhere. I make fly rods for fun. So when my job, family or fishing takes priority away from that fun, my production will slow down. I hope that makes sense and is satisfying to you.
Lee Orr began the 304 Rod Company in 2010 yet we still share ideas and continue in several joint projects including the Operation Iraqi Freedom series of rods that find their way into the hands of some of our fine fly fishing veterans.
Angling & Conservation
Began fly fishing around the age of 15. Joined Trout Unlimited in college and was transformed by how much richer fishing becomes when you give back to the resource. In the early 2000's, I assisted Lee Orr in starting the Back The Brookie campaign in West Virginia. Became WV State Council Trout Unlimited Secretary in 2008. I have assisted in coordinating several conservation projects in WV and attend policy hearings affecting coldwater resources at every opportunity. I believe strongly in giving back to trout conservation, particularly if you have a business model that relies on healthy coldwater systems.
I am passionate about native trout conservation in particular. Native salmonids define an ecosystem and are steeped in mystery and poetry. I was blessed to catch and photograph all three subspecies of native cutthroat in Colorado in 2008.
Angling Art
In 2007 I began filming a video to showcase Vandalia Rodworks. The video "Vandalia Angler" is available for purchase. The short trailer version of the video won third place in a R.L. Winston short video competition. Currently, I am working on a video about eastern brook trout conservation as time and resources permit.
Photography is as much a part of my angling as presenting a fly. The experience is enriched when I can bring home high quality images from the trip. Each image you see here was taken by me.
Stay featured or remove this badge.
