It sounds like you’re referencing a vintage print advertisement from the 1911 Sears, Roebuck & Co. catalog featuring antique fishing tackle, rods, and fly fishing equipment made of steel. These early 20th-century ads are highly collectible and offer a fascinating glimpse into the history of fishing gear. Here’s some context and details that might interest you:
Key Features of 1911 Fishing Tackle in Sears Catalogs:
1. Materials & Construction:
– Early fishing rods were often made of bamboo, steel, or split cane, with steel being advertised as durable and modern.
– Reels were typically brass or nickel-plated, with simple drag systems.
– Fly fishing gear included horsehair or silk lines and hand-tied flies.
2. Popular Items in 1911 Catalogs:
– Steel Rods: Marketed as unbreakable and suited for heavy fish.
– Fly Rods: Often 9–11 feet long, designed for trout and bass.
– Tackle Boxes: Wooden or metal, with compartments for hooks, lures, and lines.
– Flies & Lures: Classic patterns like Royal Coachman, Black Gnat, and Parmachene Belle.
3. Sears Branding:
– Sears sold fishing gear under house names like “Ted Williams” (later) or “Reliable” (early 1900s).
– Prices were very low by today’s standards (e.g., a steel rod might cost $1–$5).
Collectibility & Value Today:
– Original 1911 catalog pages (like the one you mention) can sell for $20–$100+ depending on condition.
– Vintage steel rods are rare; collectors seek them for historical value (though bamboo rods are more prized).
– Fly reels and lures from this era can fetch $50–$500+ if in good condition.
Where to Find This Ad:
– eBay, Etsy, or specialty antique fishing sites (e.g., Lang’s Auctions).
– Reprints of Sears catalogs are available from publishers like Skyhorse Publishing or Dover Publications.
Would you like help identifying a specific item or determining its value? If you have a photo or more details, I can provide deeper insights!