Celtic Angler
New member
Hi Guys, I have started an ambitious project whereby I am researching the history of fishing tackle making in South Africa. I am slowly building up a record of who the old classic tackle makers were from the pre 1st world war period right through to the current times.
The main focus is on the old reel makers but I am also including rod makers and makers of other fishing related equipment such as fly tying vices, etc. The only stipulation is that this is all restricted to locally made items. South Africa has had (and still does have) a surprisingly large number of really good quality tackle makers that we can be proud of. Historic examples include the Castle Reel Company that used to be in Cape Town and J.H. Healy of Johannesburg. There were also numerous local makers of the old wooden Scarborough type reels. Today of course, we have examples such as the makers of the world class Jvice and the highly regarded Shilton reels. We also have a few makers of excellent quality bamboo rods who have become very well known and sought after internationally.
I would really appreciate any information that any of you may have on the old South African made tackle and their makers. Do any of you perhaps have any of these items in your collection or maybe even a family connection to one of the vintage tackle makers? Any photographs, guidance or related information would be great.
Please either PM me or maybe even share what info or pics you have on this thread.
I hope to eventually build up enough information to be able to publish a book on this topic.
Cheers,
Tim
The main focus is on the old reel makers but I am also including rod makers and makers of other fishing related equipment such as fly tying vices, etc. The only stipulation is that this is all restricted to locally made items. South Africa has had (and still does have) a surprisingly large number of really good quality tackle makers that we can be proud of. Historic examples include the Castle Reel Company that used to be in Cape Town and J.H. Healy of Johannesburg. There were also numerous local makers of the old wooden Scarborough type reels. Today of course, we have examples such as the makers of the world class Jvice and the highly regarded Shilton reels. We also have a few makers of excellent quality bamboo rods who have become very well known and sought after internationally.
I would really appreciate any information that any of you may have on the old South African made tackle and their makers. Do any of you perhaps have any of these items in your collection or maybe even a family connection to one of the vintage tackle makers? Any photographs, guidance or related information would be great.
Please either PM me or maybe even share what info or pics you have on this thread.
I hope to eventually build up enough information to be able to publish a book on this topic.
Cheers,
Tim