Sam Carlson "Four" Quad Fly Rod 6' 2/2 #4

An exceedingly rare Carlson Four Special quad fly rod, 6' 2-piece, 2-tips for a #4 line. Medium fast action. Excellent original condition. Some discoloration of the western style grip and the all cork seat, and a tiny amount of brassing to the oxidation of the butt cap edge are the only signs of use.

An interesting note on this rod's history. It was built by Sam Carlson in 1962 and originally sold to Rosgen's Sporting Goods in Winsted, Ct. and wrapped in colors specified by Rosgen (brown, pongee, and black). Rods built for Bill Rosgen did not carry Sam's name or serial number. The original owner had removed Rosgen's inscription and replaced it with his own name and address. In 1996 the rod was returned to Sam and the first owner's inscription was removed and signed by Sam and given a serial number, and then re-varnished. I suspect that this makes this rod one of a kind as I don't know of any others that have received similar treatment.

The rod is signed (2 flats left) "Carlson four-Special" and (1 flat left) "7512-462" and on the wrap flat "C.W. Sam Carlson-maker". Wrapped by Sam's wife Verna in brown main wrap, pongee, and black. The same color scheme is repeated in the signature wraps. A small stripping guide and high arch tungsten snake guides are accented by a coat of Cosmo spar varnish (the best varnish ever made and no longer available). Sam's usual front cork check and the butt cap station are made of the same material. The cap and ring are superbly machined as you would expect from Sam who was an expert machinist and tool and die maker. All hardware is oxidized and the rod is straight as a pin. In the original tube and bag. Included with the rod are emails between the owner and Dana Grey about the rod history and a photocopy of the card Sam filled out upon receiving the rod to refinish the butt. The owner was told by Sam that less than 10 6' rods were made making this one very rare indeed. A great opportunity here for the serious collector.