Hand Crafted Bamboo Rods
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 For most people when they think of fly fishing they think of
fishing for trout. They think of waders, fedora
hats and whicker creels. Images come to mind of
clear water, calm breezes, and rising fish.
Casting a delicate fly so lightly and precisely that it
just floats down onto the water just as a real fly would
fall. They think of metal fly boxes and bamboo
rods. All of these images harken back to a time
with this equipment was standard fare for an afternoon of
fly fishing.
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 Although not many creels are used today and most fly boxes have
changed to plastic, waders are still used (and thankfully
gotten much better) and bamboo rods are still being
made. The age of graphite and boron rods was
ushered in the 1970's but many people still like the
action and feel of a split bamboo rod. Maybe it
is the balance of the rods, how they casts, the feel of
the bamboo, the the fact it is hand made or simply the
nostalgia. Whatever the reason people still like a well
made split bamboo fly rod.
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Fortunately for us here in Indianapolis we have on of the
finest split bamboo rod makers around. Randy
Fridlund of Amabilis lives right here in Indy and has
been making fine quality spilt bamboo rods for years.
Made in the classic traditions of master rod builders,
Randy pays close attention to every detail.
Weather you are looking for a Dickerson rod or a Leonard
or a Payne, Randy can will make a wonderful rod that you
will cherish for years.
 As well as recreating patterns of master rod makers
Randy can custom build a rod for you and your casting
and fishing style. Whether you want a different
action to the rod or finish or hardware he can help make
a rod that is matched to your fishing style and
personality.
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There are many different bamboo rod makers in the world,
however few surpass the quality in craftsmanship and
detail as Amabilis rods. Many bamboo rods makers
charge thousands of dollars for their rods. The
rods that Randy makes are moderately prices in the $400.00
to $800.00 range.
If you would like to learn more about these exceptional
rods and the maker you can visit
Amabilis on
the internet or stop by the shop. Randy has a very
nice web site with many photos of rods that he has made
as well as a slide show of photos showing how rods are
made.
 At the shop we currently have a number of Amabilis rods
in stock for people to try out and purchase. If
you would like you can cast one here at the shop and
find one you like and then contact Randy and he will use
the rod as a base for your own. As mentioned you
can have custom hardware, handle, finish, wraps and
even have extra tip sections made.
Also, if you have an old bamboo rod that is important to
you Amabilis does restoration work as well!
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