New on MidCurrent : McGuane Talks Bamboo

February 3, 2009 By: Marshall Cutchin

Whether or not you fish with bamboo or ever care to, there’s no denying that split cane rods touch the heart of fly fishing. Aficionados declare that hand-crafted bamboo has “soul,” that each rod’s uniqueness can be felt. To hear an expert angler who occasionally fishes bamboo for its unique qualities tell why is even more interesting, especially if that person is Thomas McGuane.
This week we’re happy to show Tom fishing and talking about bamboo rods and their role in the sport. It’s a long excerpt from the DVD “Trout Grass,” which also is one of the few films that captures legendary rod builder Glenn Brackett at work. “Trout Grass,” which is narrated by David James Duncan, is one of our favorites.