MILWARDS FEATHERLITE
Milwards FeatherLite split cane fishing rod information and details on the features and characteristics of this sort-after piece of fishing tackle.
Description and Features
The Milwards Featherlite split cane fishing rod was 12ft in length and designed specifically for match conditions. The tips were always twin tapered cane, while the mid-section and butt section were either cane or reed, or reed spliced with cane. The handle was cork, and agate was used for butt fittings and for the rings inside the guides. Often different colored agate was used for different parts of the rod, with the tip ring agate being different from the other guide rings and handle fittings.
The FeatherLite came in three sections, plus the usual extra tip section, all wrapped up in a cloth bag. Because of its Match Rod status, it also had more than a few transfers spread around, proclaiming certain features. Like all Milwards match rods, the FeatherLite was successfully used in competition by a number of leading British anglers of the day, enhancing both its own and the company's reputation.
How to Find a Vintage Milwards Rod
Like all Milwards split cane fishing rods, the FeatherLite is in high demand amongst collectors of antique and vintage fishing tackle. Obviously you will have more chance of finding one in England or elsewhere in the UK, but a fair number were also sold across the Atlantic. If you have plenty of time and like exploring, local village antique or secondhand stores are places where you might be lucky enough to chance upon a Milwards. Putting the word out at your local fishing club or on online fishing forums is also a good way to find one, while specialist rod dealers would probably have one on hand – perhaps not a FeatherLite, but something in the Milwards range.
If you are a serious collector and money is no object, you could approach other collectors and just make an offer. While many collectors like to hold onto most of their best fishing gear, every now and then you may be able to persuade one to part with a Milwards, especially if you are an avid Milwards fan! You may also be able to buy a few vintage rods of other makes and use them to bater for the Milwards split cane fishing rod of your choice!
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