589 | Casting Back in Time: The Art of Bamboo Rodmaking & Traditional Fly Fishing with Ed Few

     

Ed Few, a distinguished craftsman of custom bamboo fly rods, shares his extraordinary journey from traditional boatmaking in England to mastering the art of fly fishing with hand-built gear. Delving into the essence of fly fishing’s heritage, Ed brings to life the thrill of using bamboo rods, silk lines, and horsehair leaders, all while chasing steelhead in the Great Lakes. Listeners will be transported back in time, learning not just about the meticulous process of creating these traditional tools, but also how they can elevate their own fishing experiences. Ed’s stories of craftsmanship, passion, and the pursuit of the perfect catch with historic gear promise to inspire and ignite a curiosity for the timeless art of fly fishing.

Show Notes with Ed Few. Hit play below! 👇🏻

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(Read the Full Transcript at the bottom of this Blog Post)

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Topics Discussed in This Episode:

• The transition from traditional boat building to crafting bamboo fly rods
• The unique allure of fishing with hand-built custom bamboo rods and traditional gear
• The process and passion behind selecting materials for rod building, including sourcing bamboo and creating silk lines
• Techniques and benefits of fishing with horsehair leaders and hand-tied flies
• Ed Few’s memorable experience catching steelhead in the Great Lakes with a bamboo rod he crafted

• The significance of preserving fly fishing traditions while integrating them with contemporary practices
• Insights into the craftsmanship of rod building without power tools, emphasizing the artistry involved
• The potential for bamboo rods in modern fly fishing, including trout and saltwater applications
• The concept of a community-shared bamboo rod to connect anglers and stories across the globe
• Ed Few’s vision for the future of traditional fly fishing gear and his contributions to the sport’s heritage

Key Takeaways:

1. Explore Traditional Gear: Dive into the world of bamboo rods, silk lines, and horsehair leaders. These tools offer a unique, tactile connection to fly fishing’s history and can enrich your experience on the water.
2. Craftsmanship Matters: Appreciate the artistry behind handmade fishing gear. The careful selection of materials and meticulous construction processes of bamboo rods highlight the craftsmanship that elevates the fly fishing experience.
3. Embrace the Slow: Fishing with traditional gear encourages a slower, more deliberate approach. This not only enhances the joy of the sport but also connects you more deeply with the environment and the art of angling.
4. Preserve the Heritage: Engaging with traditional fly fishing practices is a way to honor and preserve the sport’s rich history. It’s about more than catching fish; it’s keeping alive the stories and techniques passed down through generations.
5. Share the Experience: Consider participating in community initiatives like the bamboo rod share program. It’s a unique opportunity to connect with other anglers, share stories, and be part of a larger narrative within the fly fishing community.
   

   

6. Seek Knowledge: Take the time to learn about the history and craftsmanship behind traditional fly fishing gear. Understanding the why behind the tools you use adds depth to your fishing adventures.
7. Value Patience: Whether building a rod or waiting for the perfect catch, patience is a virtue in fly fishing. The process is as rewarding as the outcome, offering lessons in patience and perseverance.
8. Connect with Nature: Traditional gear often requires a gentler touch and a more nuanced understanding of the water. It’s an invitation to deepen your connection with the natural world.
9. Challenge Yourself: Fishing with traditional equipment can offer a new set of challenges and rewards. It’s an opportunity to grow as an angler and experience the sport in a new light.
10. Pass It On: Consider teaching others about the beauty of fishing with bamboo rods and traditional gear. Sharing your knowledge helps ensure that these cherished traditions continue for future generations.

Follow Ed on Instagram 👉🏻 @bamboofew

Related Episodes

WFS 343 – Bamboo Fly Rod Making Class with Bill Oyster – Oyster Bamboo

Full Podcast Transcript

Conclusion

In this episode with Ed Few, listeners were treated to a deep dive into the world of traditional fly fishing, exploring the art and dedication behind crafting bamboo fly rods, and the nuanced joys of using horsehair leaders and silk lines. Ed’s journey from boat building in England to becoming a craftsman of fly fishing rods in the U.S. not only highlights the intricate bond between angler and tool but also serves as a testament to the enduring allure of fly fishing’s heritage. Through stories of personal experiences and a shared passion for the sport, this conversation promises to inspire anglers to explore the roots of fly fishing, embracing the traditions that connect us to the past and enrich our experience on the water.