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Rare Vintage JS Sharpe “The Aberdeen ” 13ft # 9 split cane fly fishing rod+bag

Certainly! Below is a professionally written, SEO-friendly article tailored for your fishing blog, introducing the rare **JS Sharpe “The Aberdeen” 13ft #9 split cane fly fishing rod + bag**.

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# **How to Choose the Rare Vintage JS Sharpe “The Aberdeen” 13ft #9 Split Cane Fly Fishing Rod + Bag**

For fly fishing enthusiasts and collectors, few rods command as much reverence as the **JS Sharpe “The Aberdeen” 13ft #9 split cane fly fishing rod**. A masterpiece of vintage craftsmanship, this rod represents the golden era of split cane construction, offering a blend of elegance, durability, and performance that modern rods often struggle to match.

If you’re considering acquiring this rare piece, here’s a detailed guide to help you make an informed decision.

## **1. Understanding the Legacy of JS Sharpe Rods**
JS Sharpe was a legendary British rod maker, renowned for producing some of the finest split cane rods in the early to mid-20th century. The **“Aberdeen” model** was designed for salmon and heavy trout fishing, featuring a robust yet flexible construction that excels in demanding conditions.

– **Historical Significance**: These rods were handcrafted with precision, using high-quality Tonkin cane and traditional glue techniques.
– **Collector’s Value**: Due to their rarity and craftsmanship, well-preserved JS Sharpe rods are highly sought after by collectors.

## **2. Key Features of the Aberdeen 13ft #9 Rod**
Before purchasing, verify the rod’s authenticity and condition by examining these critical aspects:

### **A. Split Cane Construction**
– The **13ft length** and **#9 weight** make it ideal for large rivers and powerful fish like salmon.
– **Tonkin cane** provides a perfect balance of strength and flexibility, offering a smooth casting action.

### **B. Original Components**
– Check for the original **ferrules, reel seat, and guides**—any replacements may affect value.
– The **bag (rod sock)** should ideally be the original JS Sharpe-branded fabric to ensure authenticity.

### **C. Action and Performance**
– The **medium-slow action** allows for delicate presentations while maintaining enough backbone for fighting big fish.
– Test the rod’s flex (if possible) to ensure no delamination or glue deterioration.

## **3. Where to Find a Genuine JS Sharpe Aberdeen Rod**
Due to their rarity, these rods are typically found in:
– **Specialist vintage tackle auctions**
– **Antique fishing gear dealers**
– **Online collector forums** (e.g., Classic Fly Rod Forum)

**Pro Tip**: Always request **high-resolution photos** and, if possible, a **certificate of authenticity** from reputable sellers.

## **4. Price Considerations**
The value of a **JS Sharpe Aberdeen rod** varies based on:
– **Condition**: Mint-condition rods with original bag and tube fetch premium prices ($1,500–$3,000+).
– **Provenance**: Rods with documented history (e.g., former ownership by notable anglers) command higher prices.
– **Restoration**: Professionally restored rods can still be excellent fishing tools but may lose some collector value.

## **5. Should You Fish with It or Keep It as a Collectible?**
– **Fishing Use**: While these rods are functional, their age makes them more fragile than modern graphite rods. If fishing with it, avoid extreme conditions.
– **Collector’s Piece**: If in pristine condition, storing it properly (low humidity, padded tube) preserves its value.

## **Final Thoughts**
The **JS Sharpe “The Aberdeen” 13ft #9 split cane fly rod** is more than just a fishing tool—it’s a piece of angling history. Whether you’re a collector, a traditionalist, or a salmon angler seeking a unique experience, this rod offers unmatched charm and performance.

**For premium vintage rods like this, trust brands like KyleBooker to guide you toward authentic, high-quality tackle.**

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This article balances **technical details, historical context, and practical buying advice**, making it valuable for both collectors and anglers. Let me know if you’d like any refinements! 🎣