Mayflower bamboo rod ID help

[Cuttyhunker]

This is a bamboo 6' boat rod that came in a lot deal.  Does anyone here know anything about Mayflower rods?
Thanks

[RC4600]

I know a little, they were made in occupied Japan right after WWII. I have seen a few of the fly rods. RC

[oc1]

They're also labeled Grampus, Kiraku, Sakura, Seal, Mermaid, Azuma and Cambridge.  They're curious because a ton of them were made and MANY service men who were stationed in Okinawa or Japan after the war came home with one.  They must have been a good deal.  Most came in a plywood box.  Many could be changed from fly to baitcasting or boat rods by reversing the handle.  They are all wrapped with that same thread.  I've always wondered if they were made in a single huge factory or if the components were farmed out to others.

Search for "Grampus" or look here:
https://alantani.com/index.php?topic=22401.0
https://alantani.com/index.php?topic=21207.0
https://alantani.com/index.php?topic=20598.0
https://alantani.com/index.php?topic=20498.0

-steve

[Cuttyhunker]

Thanks guys, from the seat and ferrule I didn't think it was top shelf tackle, and thanks for the additional info in the thread links.  Maybe I'll re-wrap it with candy apple red and put my old 249 on it for show and tell.

[Cuttyhunker]

It only took 3 years but finally got the old bamboo re-wraped, rod varnished and handle re-painted.  Mounted a pre war, I think, 49, the counter weight is smooth like a nickle, not coin edged like a quarter.  Snuck out for an hour or so yesterday to see if we could get a striper or blue to bend it, but no joy.  Left it on the boat, need to land a few with it just for the braggin rights before it gets hung on the wall.

[Reeltyme]

Cutty, Better late than never. Looks like a fine looking outfit. I'm sure you'll put a bend in her before too long. Good luck!
Reeltyme

[happyhooker]

Looks like it was worth the wait.

Frank

[Finest Kind]

Great looking outfit. I don't think it will be long before you hook up with a nice cow!
John

[thorhammer]

great save. just as good on that purpose as it was 70 years ago.

[Cuttyhunker]

Well did get a Bluefish with the old girl.  The rod is stiff like the Penn Tuna Sticks from 20 years ago, maybe a 114H and try for a football bluefin next summer....Easy on the drag, let the fish run some, he'll turn soon enough.  Will post how it works out.