Hardy Bros 1930s Split Cane Fishing Rod | 3-Piece 13 Ft Coarse Rod “The Expert” in Original Canvas Bag

For the angler … a stunning 3-piece split cane coarse fishing rod, “The Expert” from esteemed British maker Hardy Bros, dating to the late 1930s. Measuring 13 feet when fully assembled, this pre-war rod remains in exceptional condition, retaining its original red silk wraps, bright varnished cane, snug brass ferrules, wooden ferrule stoppers, and burgundy Hardy-marked butt cap. The cork handle shows minimal wear and suggests very limited use. It is accompanied by its original canvas bag with stitched Hardy label bearing interwar royal warrant markings. A substantial and highly appealing example of English sporting craftsmanship, equally suited to careful use on the river or display in a gentleman’s study.

Founded in 1872 in Alnwick, Northumberland, Hardy Bros became the most respected name in British fishing tackle by the early 1900s. Their rods and reels were supplied to professional anglers, sporting estates, and serious amateurs throughout Britain and the Empire. The Expert model sat at the top of their coarse fishing range and would have been an aspirational purchase for the dedicated angler.

Split cane rods were the standard for coarse and match anglers in the first half of the 20th century. Constructed from Tonkin bamboo and built in multiple sections for transport, they offered strength, balance, and sensitivity. A rod of this length and type was intended for float fishing and light ledgering on large rivers and stillwaters, targeting species such as roach, chub, bream, and tench.

Length: 13’ Assembled (Bottom 53-3/4”, Middle 51-1/2”, Top 50-1/2”)
Weight: 1 lb. 3.4 oz (including bag, stoppers)

Condition notes: Overall in excellent vintage condition, with only light evidence of careful handling and limited use. Split cane sections remain straight, full length, and structurally sound, with a bright, even varnish finish throughout and no cracks, lifts, or delamination noted. Original red silk wraps are clean, tight, and secure, with no visible fraying or losses.  Steel guides show only minor surface wear. Brass ferrules fit snugly and seat properly, with original turned wooden ferrule stoppers present. Cork handle is clean and firm, with very light surface wear and minimal darkening, and the burgundy Hardy-marked butt cap remains intact and secure. A small area of missing varnish is present near the “The Expert” inscription (see photos), with no associated damage to the cane beneath. Original canvas bag with stitched Hardy Bros label is included and remains complete and structurally sound, with compartments intact and seams holding well, showing moderate staining and surface wear from field use consistent with age. Rod has not been tested in use or under load. Other items in photos not included.

All items are hand-wrapped and packed with care for secure delivery. Note: due to size, this item will not be gift-boxed.  We offer flat rate shipping via USPS Ground Advantage for $10, or USPS Priority Mail for $15. Orders over $100 ship free via USPS Priority Mail — any shipping charges for orders over $100 will be refunded after checkout. We pack with safety and care using recycled and recyclable materials whenever possible.

Sorry, no returns or cancellations.  Please view all photos for more detail and feel free to contact the shop with any questions prior to purchase.