It may come as a surprise to some to realize that some of the finest split cane rods are being made today, in this day and age of technology. In fact, even though the craft itself reminds us of a time gone by, when folk worked hard with their hands, and quality was not simply a buzword but a creed to work by, there are still many today who carry on in the traditions of the master rod builders.
Technology may in a sense be distant from them, yet in many ways, technology has even improved upon some of the works of the masters. No doubt, one may have all the fanciest and most up to date tools and still produce junk while a true craftsman with simple tools can produce works of great value, however, even many of those who still use simple tools are able to take advantage of such things as networking, taper archives, and email to learn of new and better techniques and material.
You will not find anyone who has become a millionaire from building cane rods. Perhaps some of the still existent large companies that are able to produce cane rods relatively quickly can show a profit in time, the truth is most rod crafters never realize their true monetary worth in time invested. Their reward remains their craft itself. Perhaps their reward is in the fact they are carrying on old values of quality, so often lost today. Perhaps its simply in the reward of knowing they themselves, as well as their customers or recipients of their work have used and caught some fish, and the rod was what brought the most pleasure.
Regardless of what the reward is, it exists, and today there remains many who are devoted to producing the finest fishing tools possible. Perhaps with a greater understanding of what sweat and love is put into each project, you will have a greater appreciation for this breed of craftsman and understand the true value of a fine split cane rod. Maybe you are not ready to purchase a rod, or maybe you wish to build one yourself. Maybe you never will own or handle one of these elegant works, you may want to browse through the sites of these craftsmen and learn more about the individuals continuing the art. Contact them, they are a fine bunch, always willing to share a thing or two with anyone about what they do.
When you discover the price of a finely crafted rod, and realize the work, we are sure you will also realize it is an investment not only of your money, but the investment of time spent by its maker.
Related Links
Ackland Flyrods and Components
Ackland Flyrods constructs rods of an original taper design for smoother dry fly casting.
Bitterroot Rods
The photo images of Mark's work certainly show the dedication and craftsmanship that this builder puts into his rods!
Brookside Rod Co.
Offering several models of split cane rods including 4 strips, Brookside provides information on what they construct as well as ordering information.
W. Cattanach Rod Co.
An enjoyable site with a first page parable for anyone who believes graphite somehow rules cane rods. Rod building classes available.
The Chattahoochee River Rod Company
This company specializes in split cane rods for north Georgia's Brook Trout streams. Smaller and lighter than other cane rods, this maybe a worthwhile place to check out if your fishing time is spent on smaller creeks.
F. D. Lyons Rod Company
Mr Lyons has been constructing, repairing, and restoring bamboo and fibreglass rods for over 27 years.
Frank's Bamboo Zone
Located in Germany, Frank Neunemann builds split cane rods mostly for the dry fly.
Green River Rod Makers
Green River offers rods in both graphite and split cane. Their motto is 'No Compromise'.
The Makers Rod 98
Several rod makers co-operated on this joint venture. Find out why and learn a little more about the group.
Loverti Split Cane Fly Rods
For Mr. Loverti, satisfaction comes with the working of the cane itself. Find out more about his love for the craft while learning a little more about cane rods.
The Muncher is a favorite of Ian James for carp, smallies, more. 
Thoughts of a Chicken Rancher. Doc tells it like it is.