On Sat, 24 Dec 2005 11:04:26 -0500, Wayne Knight wrote:

"Jimbo" wrote in message
ups.com...
http://missoulian.com/articles/2005/...cal/news02.txt

Where have you been? This is old news back to November and has been
discussed ad nauseum on other forums. As I understand it, it was not about
politics as who was going to replace Brackett when he retired. Sad to see
Winston going through these changes, Brackett was always courteous and
forthright on the few discussions we had and what he had with others from
what I understand. If I was in the market for a Winston boo, I sure wouldn't
be paying 3K for a rod made by someone with three month's training but we
will see what transpires. All the press and internet postings has been the
boo boys' story, Winston has made no public statement other than
acknowledging the resignation, their service, wishing them well, and stating
the product line will continue. As a bamboo lover, I hate to see the change.
As a manager I sure don't like that they can't just resign quietly and
leave.

What is sadder is that Winston and now St. Croix felt they had to outsource
their *entry* level rods to asia to get the price point down to the
neighborhood of the Cabela's and TFO's of the world. Well some of you got
your "just as good cheap rods". Sooner, than later you will be kissing your
local fly shop good bye.

I just started reading Jerry Kustick's new book, he certainly loved the
conditions under which he did work.

Wayne

You mention that you are a bamboo lover, so could you assist me?

I recently picked up a used split bamboo rod with the name "Montague".
It has two tips, with a reversible handle. Can be used as a 9ft
flyrod, or 6 ft casting rod. I would like to get a handle on when the
rod was made, and whether it is safe to use one of these older rods?
Do they get brittle with age? What is the advantage of the cane over
newer carbon fibre rods? You mention that there are other groups where
these are discussed, could you point me in their direction? Thanks OvO