vintage fly fishing rods and reels

Stainless Steel Saltwater Fly Tying Hooks about 450 Mostly Mustad 3407, 34007

It sounds like you have a substantial collection of stainless steel saltwater fly tying hooks, primarily Mustad models 3407 and 34007. These are excellent choices for saltwater fly fishing due to their corrosion resistance and durability. Here’s a breakdown of what you have and some potential uses:

Mustad 3407 & 34007 Hooks Overview:
– Mustad 3407 – A classic straight-eye saltwater hook, popular for tarpon, bonefish, permit, and other saltwater species. It has a 2X strong, 1X long shank and comes in a bronze finish (unless yours are specifically stainless).
– Mustad 34007 – Similar to the 3407 but with a turned-down eye, which can help with fly alignment and prevent line abrasion. Also 2X strong, 1X long shank.

Key Features:
– Stainless Steel – Great for saltwater use, resisting rust better than standard hooks.
– Sizes – These hooks typically range from 2 to 6/0, with the most common saltwater sizes being 2, 1, 1/0, 2/0, 3/0, 4/0.
– Uses – Ideal for streamers, crab/shrimp patterns, baitfish imitations, and large saltwater flies.

What You Can Do with Them:
1. Tie Saltwater Flies – Great for patterns like:
– Clouser Minnows (2/0–4/0)
– Crazy Charlies (2–1/0)
– EP Baitfish (3/0–6/0)
– Merkins (crab patterns) (4–2/0)
– Tarpon Toads/Poppers (3/0–5/0)

2. Sell or Trade Excess Hooks – If you have more than you need, these are in demand among saltwater fly tiers.

3. Organize by Size – Since you have ~450 hooks, sorting them by size will make fly tying more efficient.

Stainless Steel Saltwater Fly Tying Hooks about 450 Mostly Mustad 3407, 34007

Potential Considerations:
– Are they truly stainless? Some Mustad hooks are bronze-finished high-carbon steel (which can rust if not dried properly). Verify if they’re labeled “stainless” or “corrosion-resistant.”
– Hook Sharpness – Older hooks may need sharpening before use.

Where to Buy More (If Needed):
– Retailers:
– [J. Stockard Fly Fishing](https://www.jsflyfishing.com)
– [Fly Shack](https://www.flyshack.com)
– [Hareline Dubbin](https://hareline.com)

Would you like recommendations for specific fly patterns or tips for organizing your collection?

Fly Fishing Rod Daiwa Lochmore Progressive F907 01492835 With Slight Scratches

Fly Fishing Rod Daiwa Lochmore Progressive F907 01492835 With Slight Scratches

# **How to Choose the Fly Fishing Rod Daiwa Lochmore Progressive F907 01492835 With Slight Scratches**

Fly fishing is an art that requires precision, skill, and the right equipment. One of the most critical tools in a fly angler’s arsenal is the fly rod. The **Daiwa Lochmore Progressive F907 01492835** is a high-quality rod designed for both beginners and experienced anglers. However, if you’re considering purchasing a model with slight scratches, there are several factors to evaluate to ensure you’re making a wise investment.

## **Understanding the Daiwa Lochmore Progressive F907 01492835**

Before diving into the selection process, it’s essential to understand what makes this rod special. The **Daiwa Lochmore Progressive F907** is a 9-foot, 7-weight fly rod designed for versatility in freshwater fishing. Its progressive action allows for smooth casting, making it ideal for targeting trout, bass, and even smaller salmon.

### **Key Features:**
– **Material:** High-modulus graphite for lightweight strength
– **Action:** Progressive (medium-fast) for balanced power and accuracy
– **Length & Weight:** 9’0″ (2.74m), 7wt – perfect for medium to large rivers
– **Guides:** Stainless steel with ceramic inserts for durability
– **Handle:** Premium cork grip for comfort and sensitivity

## **Why Consider a Rod With Slight Scratches?**

Purchasing a fly rod with minor cosmetic imperfections can be a smart financial decision, especially if the structural integrity remains intact. Here’s why:

1. **Cost Savings** – A rod with slight scratches is often sold at a discount, allowing you to invest in a high-end model without paying full retail price.
2. **Performance Unaffected** – Minor surface blemishes do not impact casting performance or durability.
3. **Great for Beginners** – If you’re new to fly fishing, a discounted rod lets you test premium gear before committing to a brand-new purchase.

## **What to Check Before Buying**

When evaluating a **Daiwa Lochmore Progressive F907 with scratches**, follow these steps to ensure you’re getting a functional rod:

### **1. Inspect the Blank (Rod Shaft)**
– Run your fingers along the blank to detect any deep cracks or fractures.
– Look for stress marks near the ferrules (joints), as these areas are prone to damage.

### **2. Examine the Guides**
– Ensure none are bent or missing inserts.
– Check for rust or corrosion, which could weaken the rod over time.

### **3. Test the Action**
– Flex the rod gently to see if it bends smoothly without unusual stiffness or weak spots.
– A progressive rod should have a smooth, even bend from tip to butt.

### **4. Assess the Cork Handle**
– Minor dents or discoloration are normal, but deep cracks or crumbling cork indicate poor maintenance.

### **5. Verify the Ferrules (Connections)**
– Ensure the rod sections fit snugly without excessive wobbling.
– Loose ferrules can lead to breakage during casting.

## **Where to Buy a Used or Slightly Damaged Fly Rod**
– **Online Marketplaces** (eBay, Facebook Marketplace) – Look for sellers with positive reviews.
– **Fishing Forums & Classifieds** – Enthusiasts often sell well-maintained gear.
– **Local Tackle Shops** – Some stores sell demo or lightly used rods at a discount.

## **Final Thoughts**

The **Daiwa Lochmore Progressive F907 01492835** is an excellent fly rod for anglers who value performance and versatility. While purchasing one with slight scratches can save money, always inspect it thoroughly to avoid hidden damage. If the rod passes all checks, you’ll have a high-quality tool at a fraction of the cost—perfect for enhancing your fly fishing experience.

**Pro Tip:** Pair this rod with a matching **Daiwa fly reel** and a quality **WF7F floating line** for optimal performance.

Happy fishing! 🎣


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