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ReeLpedia®™ Australian Encyclopedia Covering Old Antique Vintage Fly Fishing Reels.

A comprehensive factual information reference guide, unique and indelibly linked to the spirit of passionate collectors.   ReeLman's rare reels, presented to you by Bernard (Bernie) Ladd, Melbourne Australia.

This reeLpedia segment on Australian vintage fishing reels describes Fly fishing reel model brands made in Australia.

The reels described are Ace, Atlas, Austin, Bonza, Capstan, Crouch, Cussons, Dawson, Derwent, Eastways Perfect, Ebro, Eureka, Goodwin, Goulburn, Ideal, J M G, J M Gillies, Kingston, Kiewa, Lesta, Monty, Pipgras, Rainbow, Rod Kraft, Silver King, Standard, Streamcraft, Superflex Shannon, Spalding, Tasma, Troutmaster, Walton, W. F. D, Victor Yann "Tasmanian".

ACE Fly reel made in Australia. -c.1950s.

1- ACE vintage Fly fishing reel
3- ACE vintage Fly fishing reel
2- ACE vintage Fly fishing reel
4- ACE vintage Fly fishing reel
5- ACE vintage Fly fishing reel

Specifications: Aluminium body; revolving perforated plate contracted drum; brass saddle (foot)  and spool retaining screw; ebonite handle knob; stainless steel line guide, ACE Fly Reel stamped on back plate;  fixed check (internally adjustable); Black anodised body finish; Perforated drum (spool) plain aluminium finish; diameter 3 3/8'',  drum (spool) width 1 7/8''. Rare.

ACE Fly reel second version ACE font straight stamped. made in Australia -c. 1950s.

3- ACE vintage Fly reel second version
1-ACE vintage Fly reel second version
4- ACE vintage Fly reel second version
2- ACE vintage Fly fishing reel

Specifications: Aluminium body; revolving perforated plate contracted drum; brass saddle (foot) and spool retaining screw, ebonite handle knob; stainless steel line guide, ACE Fly Reel stamped on back plate; optional check;  aluminium body plain (raw) finish; Perforated drum (spool) plain aluminium finish; diameter 3 3/8'',  drum (spool) width 1 7/8''. Rare.

ATLAS style Fly fishing reel ( first version) Unbranded. Maker Victor Yann, Heidelberg Vic, Australia -c.1940s. Extremely rare.

1- ATLAS vintage Fly fishing reel
3 - ATLAS vintage Fly reel
2- ATLAS vintage Fly fishing reel
2- ATLAS vintage Fly reel
4- ATLAS vintage Fly fishing reel
1- ATLAS vintage Fly reel

Specifications: Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Diameter 3 1/2''; ventilated spool (drum) width 3/4 ". Three piece aluminium body with removable handle plate; ebonite handle knob; manganese bronze bearing; brass adjustable check mechanism; weight 234 gr.

ATLAS Fly fishing reel fixed check model -c 1951.

1- ATLAS vintage Fly fishing reel
4- ATLAS Fly fishing reel
3- ATLAS Fly fishing reel
2- ATLAS Fly fishing reel

Specifications: Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel.:Aluminium three piece body; black anodised; diameter 3 3/8''; ventilated drum (spool) width 5/8"; fixed check; ball bearings spindle supported; removable metal line guide; weight 6 1/4 oz. The 'ATLAS - FLY - REEL stamped on the spool (drum) face. Maker Victor Yann, Heidelberg Vic, Australia -c.1951. Very rare.

ATLAS Fly fishing reel adjustable check model -c 1951.

1- ATLAS vintage Fly fishing reel
3- ATLAS Fly fishing reel
4- ATLAS Fly fishing reel
2- ATLAS Fly fishing reel

Specifications: Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Aluminium three-piece body, burgundy anodised ; diameter 3 3/8''; ventilated drum (spool) width 5/8"; adjustable check; ball bearings spindle supported; removable metal line guide;  weight 6 1/4 oz. The 'ATLAS' - FLY - REEL stamped on removable spool-drum face. Maker Victor Yann, Heidelberg Vic, Australia -c.1951. Very rare.

AUSTIN Fly fishing reel.

1-Austin vintage Fly fishing reel
2- AUSTIN vintage Fly fishing reel
3-AUSTIN vintage Fly fishing reel

Specifications: Metal revolving plate contacted drum Fly reel. Cast Aluminium alloy body and saddle (foot) and drum (spool); baked enamel green hammertone finish; diameter 3 5/8''; body width 1 3/16''; permanent check; ebonite handle -knob; weight 184 g; cast in relief " AUSTIN " TROUT - REEL Made in Australia -c. 1953. Maker unknown. Rare.

BONZA Fly fishing reel.

1- BONZA vintage Fly fishing reel
2- BONZA vintage Fly fishing reel made i

Specifications: Metal revolving plate Fly reel made in Australia. Aluminum alloy body (frame) construction with brass revolving plate and; Brass saddle (foot) ebonite handle knob; fixed check;r removable end plate threaded to the spindle; brass screw retaining spool (drum); diameter 2 1/2''; spool (drum) width 1 3/16''; weight 4 1/2 oz. 

The Bonza engraved on the revolving end plate and Bronze Bearings engraved on the far end plate.. circa 1940. Rare.

CAPSTAN Norm Pritchard designed Planetary Geared Fly Reel - Extremely Rare.

Capstan 36 Geared Bakelite and Metal Fly reel Capstan Plastic Moldings, Petersham, NSW.

Specifications: Bakelite back and drum (spool), embedded nickel plated saddle (foot) stainless steel gear housing front spool face cover plate; optional check, single metal handle mounted on a front retaining plate and connected to gears, gear ratio 2:1; diameter 3 1/2'', drum (spool) width 1''. Capstan No 36 Made in Australia pat No's 104780 29239 moulded on back - C. 1950. The second of the two patent numbers refers to a provisional patent lodged by Norman Pritchard of Mosman NSW in 1949, which was subsequently ratified as Pat No 143249 in 1950. The patent was granted for a design, which enabled gearing to be employed at the option of the angler. Gripping the knurled section of the handle knob engages four planetary gears with one being fixed to the handle, two intermediaries to obtain the correct rotation, and one fixed to the drum (spool). Ladd, B. 2010.

1- CAPSTAN vintage Fly fishing reel
3 - Pritchard Planatary geared Fly reel
3- Pritchard Planatary geared Fly reel
2- CAPSTAN vintage Fly fishing reel
3- CAPSTAN vintage Fly fishing reel
4- CAPSTAN vintage Fly fishing reel

Specifications: Bakelite spool-drum and back plate; 316-grade stainless steel gear housed front spool-drum plate; brass knurled nickel plated handle; optional check; embedded nickel plated brass saddle (foot). Diameter 3 1/2''; drum (spool) width 1''. Capstan No 36 made in Australia Pat Nos 104780  29239  molded in back plate -c. 1949.

CROUCH The Sportsman Fly reel - Very rare. History: Jack Crouch, instrument maker, when based at Fairfield, Melbourne, designed and manufactured the SPORTSMAN fly fishing reel -c 1937. Very rare.

2- CROUCH SPORTSMAN vintage Fly reel
1- CROUCH SPORTSMAN vintage Fly reel
2- CROUCH SPORTSMAN vintage Fly reel
5- CROUCH SPORTSMAN vintage Fly reel
1- CROUCH The Sportsman vintage Fly reel

Specifications: Aluminium revolving perforated plate contracted drum fly reel. Diameter 3 3/8'', spool drum width 15/16'' brass saddle (foot); single black Erinoid handle knob; brass knurled slotted screw attached to the drum, which lifts drum on the spindle when unscrewed. Adjustable screw check tension with secondary tongue and spring, which can be bought into operation as a double check. Steel spindle running in gun metal bearing bush. Chrome-plated line guide, weight 6oz.  "The Sportsman " stamped on the back.     Maker Jack Crouch, Melbourne -C.1937.

CUSSONS Fly Fishing Reels History.

George Cussons' fly fishing reels appeared for the first time on the Australian market in 1947. They initially were manufactured by Cussons under the Spalding Brand, a major sports equipment wholesale and retail outlet. Three models were mass-produced by Cussons' manufacturing company, based in Carlton, Melbourne. The three models were named: Estuary; Silverstream Deluxe; and Silverstream Standard.  All three models were mass-produced and were exceptionally popular during the late 1940s. The same model range was re-issued again in 1950, this time bearing the Cussons branding stamp on the back face of the fly reel. The popularity of the Cussons Fly Reel continued to thrive across the 1950s and well into the 1960s. The production ceased sometime during the 1960s.  Many of these fly reels were also exported to markets in New Zealand and possibly to other countries around the globe. 

CUSSONS Fly fishing reel first model version. Very rare

2- CUSSONS First version Fly reel
1- CUSSONS First version Fly reel
4- CUSSONS First version Fly fishing ree
5- CUSSONS First version Fly fishing ree
3- CUSSONS First version Fly fishing ree
1- CUSSONS First version Fly fishing ree

All aluminum frame and drum (spool)  diameter 3 7/16 ''; drum width 3/4''; fixed check; ebonite handle-knob; plated brass line guide; weight approximately 160g. GC logo stamped on back plate. Maker George Cussons, Carlton, Victoria, -c. 1940s. Very rare.

CUSSONS Deluxe Fly fishing reel early model version. Rare

2- CUSSONS Deluxe early model vintage Fl
4- CUSSONS Deluxe early model vintage Fl
1- CUSSONS Deluxe early model vintage Fl
3- CUSSONS Deluxe vintage Fly reel
5- CUSSONS vintage Fly fishing reel

Aluminium frame and perforated drum (spool) black finish; diameter 3 7/16 ''; drum width 3/4''; adjustable check; plastic type handle-knob; plated brass line guide; weight 160g. CUSSONS DE LUXE stamped on the back plate. Maker George Cussons, Carlton, Victoria, -c. 1940s. Rare.

CUSSONS Deluxe Fly fishing reel Rare with original box

1- CUSSONS Deluxe vintage Fly reel
2- CUSSONS Deluxe vintage Fly reel
3- CUSSONS Deluxe vintage Fly reel
4- CUSSONS Deluxe vintage Fly reel

Aluminium frame and perforated drum (spool); black and grey finish; diameter 3 7/16''; drum width 3/4''; adjustable check; plastic type handle-knob; plated brass line guide nickel plated saddle (foot). Perforated drum (spool) all models. CUSSONS De Luxe stamped on the back plate.   Maker George Cussons, Carlton, Vic, -c.1940s.

CUSSONS Deluxe Fly fishing reel with early Box design. Rare with original box.

1- CUSSONS Deluxe vintage Fly reel
2- CUSSONS Deluxe vintage Fly reel
4- CUSSONS Deluxe vintage Fly reel
3- CUSSONS Deluxe vintage Fly reel
5- CUSSONS Deluxe vintage Fly reel

Aluminium frame and perforated drum (spool); black and grey finish; diameter 3 7/16''; drum width 3/4''; adjustable check; plastic type handle-knob; plated brass line guide; brass nickel plated saddle (foot)  CUSSONS - De Luxe stamped on the back plate. Maker George Cussons, Carlton Vic  -c.1940s.

CUSSONS Deluxe Twin Handle knob Fly fishing reel. Hard to find.

1- CUSSONS Deluxe Twin Handle knob model
2- CUSSONS Deluxe Twin Handle knob model
3- CUSSONS Deluxe Twin Handle knob model
4- CUSSONS Deluxe Twin Handle knob model
5- CUSSONS Deluxe Twin Handle knob model

Aluminium frame and drum (spool); black and grey finish; diameter 3 7/16''; drum width 3/4''; adjustable check; twin plastic type handle-knobs; plated brass line guide; nickel plated brass saddle (foot)  CUSSONS - De Luxe stamped on back plate. Maker George Cussons, Carlton Vic  -c.1940s.

CUSSONS Standard Fly fishing reel with early Box design. Rare to find in mint condition with original box.

1- CUSSONS STANDARD vintage Fly reel
2- CUSSONS STANDARD vintage Fly reel
5- CUSSONS STANDARD vintage Fly reel
3- CUSSONS STANDARD vintage Fly reel
4- CUSSONS STANDARD vintage Fly reel

Aluminium frame and drum (spool); black and grey finish; diameter 3 7/16''; drum width 3/4''; fixed check; plastic type handle-knob; plated brass line guide; nickel plated brass saddle (foot) CUSSONS  Standard  stamped on back plate. Maker George Cussons, Carlton Vic -c.1950s.

CUSSONS Estuary Fly fishing reel with early Box design. Rare with original box.

1- CUSSONS Estuary vintage Fly reel
2- CUSSONS Estuary vintage Fly reel
3- CUSSONS Estuary vintage Fly reel
4- CUSSONS Estuary vintage Fly reel

Aluminium frame and drum (spool); grey finish; diameter 3 7/16''; drum width 3/4''; optional check; twin plastic-type handle-knobs; plated brass line guide; nickel plated brass saddle (foot). CUSSONS - Estuary stamped on the back plate. Maker George Cussons, Carlton Vic -c.1950s.

CUSSONS Standard Fly fishing reel with last Box design. Very rare to find in mint condition with original box.

1- CUSSONS Standard Fly fishing reel
3-  CUSSONS Standard Fly fishing reel
3- Cussons vintage Fly fishing ree
1- Cussons Standard vintage Fly fishing
2- Cussons Standard vintage Fly reel

Aluminium frame and drum (spool); black and grey finish; diameter 3 7/16''; drum width 3/4''; fixed check; plastic type handle-knob; plated brass line guide; nickel plated brass saddle (foot). CUSSONS  Standard stamped on back plate. Maker George Cussons, Carlton Vic -c. 1950s.

CUSSONS Fly fishing reel last model design before factory closure. Rare in Mint condition

2- Cussons vintage Fly fishing reel
1- Cussons vintage Fly fishing reel
3- Cussons vintage Fly fishing reel
4- Cussons Standard vintage Fly reel

Aluminium frame and drum (spool); black and grey finish; semi-grooved perforated spool-drum face; diameter 3 7/16''; drum width 3/4''; optional check; twin black plastic-type handle-knobs; plated brass line guide; nickel plated brass saddle (foot).  CUSSONS  stamped on the back plate. Maker George Cussons, Carlton, Vic, -c.1960s.

Dawson Fly Fishing Reel. Lionel Dawson was a qualified mechanical engineer, who worked initially at the Junbunna coal mine before establishing a motor repair shop and a General Motors car dealership in the nearby town of Kurumburra, Victoria. It was there that he designed and made his first Dawson Fly Reel in the early 1930s. After WWII, he held a position with Martin & King Pty Ltd, a Melbourne auto-engineering company that took over the manufacturing of the Dawson Fly Reel until around 1948. At this stage, Dawson decided to set up his own manufacturing company in Mentone, Melb. Production continued until the final factory closure in the mid-1950s.   Ladd B, 15/8/2014.

DAWSON Fly fishing reel, first version made - D1.

Dawson vintage Fly reel
Dawson vintage Fly reel
Dawson vintage Fly reel

DAWSON Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Sandblasted aluminium alloy finish. L.H. Dawson Korumburra stamped on the back plate. Diameter 3 3/8''; drum (Spool) width 3/4''; Aluminium alloy body. Direct drive Brass crank handle; permanent check. Brass saddle (Foot); Ebonite handle knob. -c. early 1930. Extremely rare.

DAWSON  Fly fishing reel - D 2

Dawson vintage Fly reel
Dawson vintage Fly reel
Dawson vintage Fly reel

DAWSON PERPETUAL. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Sandblasted aluminium alloy finish; perforated Drum (spool). DAWSON PERPETUAL PAT APP. FOR stamped on the back plate. Diameter 3 3/8'' drum (spool) width 3/4''; brass spool service cap; brass optional check; brass saddle (foot); ebonite handle knob; two radial thrust ball bearings; -c. 1935. Extremely rare.

4- Dawson vintage Fly reel
1- DAWSON vintage Fly fishing reel ad
2-DAWSON Fly fishing reel Patent
1- DAWSON Fly fishing reel

 Dawson Models came with: 2 Radial Thrust Bearings. (Dawson Patent specification)

DAWSON  Fly fishing reel - D 3

Dawson vintage Fly fishing reel
2-DAWSON FLY REEL
3-DAWSON FLY REEL

DAWSON PERPETUAL. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Sandblasted aluminium alloy finish. The first model was stamped DAWSON PAT. No 20908 PERPETUAL. Diameter 3 3/8''; perforated drum (spool) width 3/4'';  flat knurled brass spool service cap; aluminium body and drum; numbers 1 2 3 4 stamped on back, four-way adjustable check, bass check lever; brass saddle (foot); ebonite knob; two radial thrust ball bearings -c. 1935. Extremely Rare.

DAWSON  Fly fishing reel with original box - D 4

1- DAWSON vintage FLY REEL & box
2-DAWSON vintage Fly reel
3- DAWSON vintage Fly reel & box

DAWSON PERPETUAL. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Martin & King Melbourne Vic. Grey paint aluminium alloy finish.  DAWSON PAT. No 20908 PERPETUAL stamped on the back plate. Diameter 3 3/8''; perforated drum (spool width 3/4''; brass plated spool service cap; aluminium body and drum; numbers 1 2 3 4 stamped on back, four-way adjustable check, hexagonal check lever; brass saddle (foot); ebonite knob; two radial thrust ball bearings. Original box -c. 1940s. Rare with the original box.

DAWSON  Fly fishing reel - D 5

2- DAWSON vintage Fly reel prototype
1- DAWSON vintage Fly reel prototype
3-DAWSON vintage Fly reel prototype
2- DAWSON vintage Fly fishing reel

DAWSON PERPETUAL. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Martin & King, Melbourne Vic. Sandblasted aluminum alloy finish. Experimental combined crank/spool retaining nut direct-drive; (4-way) lever adjustable check; diameter 3 3/8''; perforated drum (spool) width 3/4'' -c 1940s. Extremely rare. Careful examination has revealed no damage in the original knob screw threaded hole. The Dawson direct drive crank is in all likelihood an experimental or a prototype model, thus indicating that various opinions suggesting that the crank is a repair, are most improbable. An interesting comment made by Bob Dunn in his AFR book, where he presents this very reel is as follows: "One of the problems in the early DAWSON PERPETUAL reels was that the handles sometimes worked loose due to the thin alloy material in the drum.  Lionel Dawson overcame the problem by designing a combined crank handle/spool retaining nut. The problem must have been fairly infrequent as this is the first reel to show up with the special handle" (B. Dunn, p. 111; AFR 1994)

DAWSON  Fly fishing reel - D 6

Dawson vintage Fly reel
Dawson vintage Fly fishing reel
Dawson vintage Fly reel

DAWSON PERPETUAL. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Martin & King Melbourne Vic. black paint aluminium alloy finish.  DAWSON PAT. No 20908 PERPETUAL stamped on the back plate. Diameter 3 3/8''; Three-row variable hole diameter ventilated drum (spool width 3/4''; brass plated spool service cap; aluminium body and drum; numbers 1 2 3 4 stamped on back, four-way adjustable check, hexagonal check lever; plated brass saddle (foot); ebonite knob; two radial thrust ball bearings -c. 1940s. Rare.

DAWSON  Fly fishing reel - D 7

Dawson vintage Fly fishing reel
Dawson vintage Fly fishing reel
Dawson vintage Fly fishing reel

DAWSON PERPETUAL. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Martin & King Melbourne Vic. Black paint aluminium alloy finish.  DAWSON PAT. No 20908 PERPETUAL stamped on the back plate. Diameter 3 3/8''; perforated drum (spool width 3/4''; brass plated spool service cap; aluminium body and drum; numbers 1 2 3 4 stamped on back, four-way adjustable check, hexagonal check lever; brass saddle (foot); ebonite knob; two radial thrust ball bearings -c. 1940s. Rare.

DAWSON  Fly fishing reel - D 8

1- DAWSON  vintage FLY REEL
2-DAWSON  vintage FLY REEL
3- DAWSON  vintage FLY REEL

DAWSON PERPETUAL. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Martin & King Melbourne Vic. Tan paint aluminium alloy finish.  DAWSON PAT. No 20908 PERPETUAL stamped on the back plate. Diameter 3 3/8'';  perforated drum (spool width 3/4''; brass plated spool service cap; aluminium body and drum; numbers 1 2 3 4 stamped on back, four-way adjustable check, hexagonal check lever; brass saddle (foot); ebonite knob; two radial thrust ball bearings -c. 1940s. Hard to find.

DAWSON  Fly fishing reel with original box - D 9

2- DAWSON Fly fishing vintage reel
1- DAWSON Fly fishing vintage reel
3- DAWSON Fly fishing reel
4- DAWSON vintage Fly fishing reel Box

DAWSON PERPETUAL. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Made in Mentone Melbourne Vic. Black anodised aluminium alloy finish.  DAWSON PAT. No 20908 PERPETUAL stamped on the back plate. Diameter 3 3/8'';  perforated drum (spool width 3/4''; flat brass knurled spool service cap; aluminium body and drum; Later model 4-way lever check, red-disc marked nos. I, 2, 3, 4.; Erinoid handle knob; brass saddle nickel plated; two radial thrust ball bearings. Original Box. -c. 1950. Rare with the original box.

DAWSON  Fly fishing reel - D 10

1- DAWSON vintage Fly reel
2- DAWSON vintage Fly reel
3- DAWSON vintage Fly reel
4- DAWSON vintage Fly reel

DAWSON PERPETUAL. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Martin & King Melbourne Vic. Grey aluminium alloy finish.  DAWSON PAT. No 20908 PERPETUAL stamped on the back plate. Diameter 3 3/8'';  perforated drum (spool width 3/4''; brass spool service cap; Aluminium body and drum; numbers 1 2 3 4 stamped on the back of Cross (star) four-way adjustable check; brass saddle (foot); ebonite handle knob; two radial thrust ball bearings -c. 1940s. Hard to find.

DAWSON  Fly fishing reel with original box - D 11

1-DAWSON Perpetual FLY REEL with Box
3-DAWSON vintage FLY REEL
2-DAWSON vintage FLY REEL

DAWSON PERPETUAL. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Martin & King Melbourne Vic. Black aluminium alloy finish.  DAWSON PAT. No 20908 PERPETUAL stamped on the back plate. Diameter 3 3/8''; perforated drum (spool width 3/4''; brass plated spool service cap; Aluminium body and drum; numbers 1 2 3 4 stamped on the back of Cross (star) four-way adjustable check; brass saddle (foot) nickel plated; Erinoid handle knob; two radial thrust ball bearings. Original box -c. 1950s. Rare with the original box.

DAWSON  Fly fishing reel - D 12

1- DAWSON 4" black finish vintage
2-DAWSON vintage Fly reel
3- DAWSON vintage Fly reel
4- DAWSON vintage Fly reel

DAWSON PERPETUAL. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Black aluminium alloy finish.  DAWSON PERPETUAL PAT. No 20908 N. Z. PAT. APP. FOR stamped on the back plate. Diameter 4 ''; ventilated drum (spool) variable diameter holes, width 7/8''; brass plated spool service cap; Aluminium body and drum; numbers 1 2 3 4 stamped on the back of Cross (star) four-way adjustable check; brass saddle (foot) nickel plated; ebonite handle knob; two radial thrust ball bearings -c. 1940s. Rare

DAWSON  Fly fishing reel - D 13

2- DAWSON FLY REEL 4 inch
1- DAWSON 4 inch FLY REEL
3- DAWSON 4 inch FLY REEL

DAWSON PERPETUAL. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Grey-silver painted finish; brass spool service cap; knurled brass optional check; ventilated drum (spool) Teflon colored twin handle knobs; plated metal line guide; two radial thrust ball bearings; diameter 4''; drum (spool) width 7/8''; weight 11 oz. No markings -c. 1940. According to Bob Dunn AFR Book section D4," this reel is a less expensive version and lacks the adjustable check. It was presented to employee and keen fisherman Jimmy Edwards by the management of Martin & King".  Rare.

DAWSON  Fly fishing reel - D 14

1-  DAWSON vintage Fly fishing reel
2- DAWSON vintage Fly fishing reel
4-  DAWSON vintage Fly fishing reel
3-  DAWSON vintage Fly fishing reel

DAWSON PERPETUAL. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Black aluminium alloy finish. DAWSON PAT. No 20908 PERPETUAL stamped on the back. Diameter 4''; ventilated drum (spool width 7/8''; brass plated spool service cap; aluminium body and drum; numbers 1 2 3 4 stamped on back, four-way adjustable hexagonal check lever; nickel plated brass saddle (foot); ebonite knob; two radial thrust ball bearings -c. 1940s. Rare

DAWSON  Fly fishing reel - D 15

1- DAWSON 4 inch FLY REEL
2-DAWSON 4 inch FLY REEL
3- DAWSON 4 inch FLY REEL

DAWSON PERPETUAL. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Prototype or possibly a 'workshop' copy. Machined aluminium alloy finish. Diameter 4''; ventilated drum (spool width 7/8''; brass plated spool service cap; aluminium body and drum; numbers 1 2 3 4 stamped on back, four-way adjustable check lever; brass saddle (foot); ebonite knob; two radial thrust ball bearings. Not branded -c. 1940s. Rare

DAWSON  Fly fishing reel with original box - D 16

1- Dawson Fly reel with Box
1- Dawson Fly reel with Box
1-Dawson vintage Fly reel
1-Dawson vintage Fly reel with Box

DAWSON PERPETUAL. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Black aluminium alloy finish.  DAWSON PAT. No 20908 PERPETUAL stamped on the back plate. Diameter 3 3/8''; perforated drum (spool width 3/4''; brass plated spool service cap; aluminium body and drum; numbers 1 2 3 4 stamped on the back of Cross (star) four-way adjustable check; brass saddle (foot) nickel plated ; Erinoid handle knob; two radial thrust ball bearings -c. 1950s. Rare with the original box.

The word DAWSON printed on this RODKRAFT box leaves us perplexed as to the manufacturing history of this DAWSON fly reel.

DAWSON JUNIOR Fly fishing reel - D 17

1- DAWSON JUNIOR vintage Fly reel
2- DAWSON JUNIOR old vintage Fly reel
1- DAWSON JUNIOR Fly reel

DAWSON JUNIOR. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Black aluminium alloy finish. Diameter 3'' ; ventilated drum (spool width 3/4''; brass plated spool screw; fixed check; saddle (foot) and frame of one piece cast aluminum alloy ; red erinoid handle knob;  -c. 1940s. Very rare

DERWENT  Fly fishing reel

1-DERWENT vintage Fly reel
2-DERWENT Fly reel  Bob Dunn Book

DERWENT. Metal revolving plate contracted drum Fly reel, made for Charles Davis Limited, Hobart Tasmania. Maker unknown. Black leaded finish; line guide; fixed check; diameter 3 1/2''; weight 7 oz; brass foot. The "DERWENT" Charles Davis Ltd Hobart is stamped on the back. Date unknown. Rare.  Bob Dunn AFR Book page 109 section D7.

EASTWAYS PERFECT  Fly fishing reel -c 1930s

2- Eastways Perfect Fly reel
5- Eastways Perfect Fly reel
3- Eastways Perfect Fly reel
4- Eastways Perfect Fly reel
2- EASTWAYS PERFECT vintage Fly fishing

EASTWAYS PERFECT. Metal revolving plate contracted drum Fly reel. Eastways, Sydney NSW. Die-cast aluminium alloy construction; brass reel seat, single horn handle knob with brass counterweight; optional check; diameter 3"; Drum (spool )width 3/4''; weight 6 oz. Eastways "Perfect" Reel stamped on the drum (spool) face plate -c 1930s Extremely rare.

EBRO  Fly fishing reels -c. 1937.

1- EBRO vintage Fly reel
2- EBRO vintage Fly fishing reel
1- EBRO vintage Fly fishing reel

EBRO. Metal revolving plate contracted drum Fly reel. Model No. 53. Roger Bros Pty Ltd, Elsternwick Vic. Plain drum (spool) face; ebonite handle knob;  back plate diameter 3 1/2'';  drum (spool) width 1  1/4''; cast alloy body, black paint finish; 3-way (position)  check; brass plated foot (saddle) EBRO stamped on back -c 1937.  Rare.

4- EBRO ventilated Drum Fly reel
3- EBRO vintage Fly reel ventilated Drum
1- EBRO ventilated Drum vintage Fly reel

EBRO. Metal revolving plate contracted drum Fly reel. Model No. 56. Roger Bros Pty Ltd, Elsternwick Vic. Perforated drum (spool) face; ebonite handle knob; back plate diameter 3 1/2''; drum (spool) width 1 1/4''; cast alloy body, black paint finish; 3-way (position)  check; brass plated foot (saddle) -c 1937.  Rare.

EBRO  'Simplex' Fly fishing reel -c. 1935.

3- Ebro SIMPLEX vintage Fly fishing reel
1- Ebro SIMPLEX vintage Fly fishing reel
2- Ebro SIMPLEX vintage Fly fishing reel
1- Ebro Simplex vintage Fly reel
EBRO Simplex Brass Fly Fishing reel
EBRO Simplex Brass drum Fly reel

EBRO  'Simplex' Fly fishing reel -c. 1935. Brass Drum (spool); brass handle knob version. Hard to find.

EBRO Simplex. Metal Fly reel. Roger Bros Pty Ltd, Elsternwick Vic. Pressed steel T seat (foot); semi-backless back.  Stainless steel handle-knob; stainless steel drum (spool) diameter 2''; drum (spool) width 7/8''; optional check. Ebro  Pat. No. 5927 - 32 stamped on back -c 1935. Rare.

EUREKA Fly fishing reel -c. 1937. Rare

1- EUREKA vintage Fly reel maker Crouch
2- EUREKA vintage Fly reel maker Crouch
4-EUREKA vintage Fly reel
3- EUREKA vintage Fly reel
5- EUREKA vintage Fly reel Bob Dunn book

EUREKA Fly Metal revolving plate contracted drum Fly reel. Designed and made by Jack Crouch Melbourne Vic. Aluminum alloy construction. brass saddle (foot) & drum (spool) screw; erinoid handle knob; perforated drum (spool); plated  circular line guide; adjustable check; diameter 3 3/8''; drum width 15/16''; weight 190 grams.  No markings -c. 1937.Made for Hartleys by Jack Crouch and has the distinctive Crouch knurled spool nut which raises the spool automatically as in the SPORTSMAN fly reel.

Goodwin  Fly fishing reel -c. 1938. Extremely rare.

3- Goodwin Fly fishing reel
1- Goodwin Fly fishing reel
5- Goodwin Fly fishing reel
2- Goodwin Fly fishing reel
4- Goodwin Fly fishing reel
4- Goodwin vintage Fly fishing reel

GOODWIN. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Maker Norm Goodwin, Albury NSW. Aluminium semi-shrouded construction; black painted finish; fixed check; brass reel seat (saddle) and drum retaining screw; black ebonite handle knob; ventilated drum; diameter 3 1/2''; drum (spool) width 3/4''; weight 6 1/4 oz. No markings -c.1938. According to Bob Dunn: "Norm Goodwin worked with Thomas Chubb, a sports retailer in Albury, during the 1930s and produced about seventy of these reels which were exclusively through Chubbs".

(Bob Dunn AFR supplement No. 2. - 1995).

Goodwin 'Uncle Norm Fry Fly' fishing reel -c. 1994. Rare

1- Goodwin 'Uncle Norm' Fly fishing reel
2- Goodwin 'Uncle Norm' Fly fishing reel
4- Goodwin 'Uncle Norm' Fly fishing reel
5- Goodwin 'Uncle Norm' Fly fishing reel
3- Goodwin 'Uncle Norm' Fly fishing reel
1-Goodwin Uncle Norm Fly reel Certificate

Goodwin 'Uncle Norm'. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Maker Norm Goodwin, Sydney NSW. Aluminium semi-shrouded construction; black painted finish; fixed check; brass reel seat (saddle) and drum screw; plastic type handle knob; ventilated drum; diameter 3 1/2''; drum (spool) width 3/4''. Inscribed The Uncle Norm  Fry Fly and No 009 - L stamped on the back plate. Only 50 were made; each individually numbered -c.1994.

GOULBURN Fly fishing reel -c. 1951.

1- Goulburn vintage Fly fishing reel
2- Goulburn vintage Fly fishing reel
3- Goulburn vintage Fly fishing reel
4- Goulburn vintage Fly fishing reel
5- Goulburn vintage Fly fishing reel

GOULBURN. Bakelite revolving plate Fly reel. Maker H. R. Bain, Melbourne Vic. Semi-shrouded frame; brass saddle (foot) brass spindle and drum (spool) release screw; ventilated drum; bakelite handle knob; diameter 3 3/8''; drum (spool) width 1''; fixed check. The Universal Goulburn Reel made by H. R. Bain Melbourne and the fish logo molded in the back plate -c. 1951. Rare

GOULBURN 'ADJUSTABLE CHECK' model Fly fishing reel -c. 1951.

1-Fly reel Goulburn adjustable check vintage Fly reel
2-Goulburn adjustable check Fly reel
3-Fly reel Goulburn adjustable check

GOULBURN Adjustable Check. Brass knurled sliding screw check cam tension adjustment -c. 1951. Extremely Rare! (other specifications same as the standard model)

Ideal Fly fishing reel -c.1930s.

1-Ideal fly fishing vintage reel
3- Ideal vintage fly fishing reel
2- Ideal vintage fly fishing reel
1- Ideal vintage fly reel

IDEAL. Metal revolving plate Fly reel. Maker unknown. Aluminum alloy construction; copper bronze surface finish; brass saddle (foot); ebonite handle knob; diameter 3 3/8''; drum (spool) width 3/4''; fixed check. IDEAL  stamped on the back plate -c. 1930s. Rare.

J M G Fly fishing reel -c.1930.

3- The J M G vintage Fly reel
2- The J M G vintage Fly reel. Bob Dunn
1- The J M G vintage Fly reel

THE J. M. G. REEL. Metal revolving plate contacted drum Fly reel. Made under contract for J. M. Gillies, Carlton Vic, by J. W. Young & Sons, Redditch England. Aluminum alloy construction; black surface finish; brass saddle (foot); ebonite handle knob; diameter 3 1/2''; perforated drum (spool) width 1''; adjustable check; agate line guide. The J M G Reel J M  Gillies Carlton Vic stamped on the back plate -c. 1930. Extremely Rare.

J M G  Fly fishing reel -c.1930.

The J M G vintage fly Reel
The J M G vintage Fly reel
The J M G vintage Fly fishing reel
Vintage J M G fly fishing reel
J M G vintage fly fishing reel

The JMG Fly Reel, a revered artifact in angling history, has been meticulously documented by the esteemed historian and author of "Australian Fishing Reels: A Collector’s Guide," Bob Dunn.
In his authoritative publication from 1994, the origins of the reel are traced back to Redditch, England, where the renowned J.W. Young & Sons skilfully crafted it. This creative endeavor arose from a collaborative contract with J. M. Gillies of Carlton, Victoria, encapsulating a truly international partnership. Among the annals of angling history, no other verifiable source substantiates the production of the iconic JMG Fly Reel by any other manufacturer. The historical account presented by Dunn remains the cornerstone of authenticity in this matter.
Within the realm of angling antiquities, the saga of the JMG Fly Reel emerges as a testament to collaborative craftsmanship spanning continents, immortalised by Bob Dunn's expert documentation.

J M  Gillies Standard (optional check) Fly fishing reel -c.1930s.

1- Gillies vintage Fly fishing reel
3- Gillies vintage Fly fishing reel
2- Gillies vintage Fly fishing reel
4- G M Gillies vintage Fly fishing reel

J M  GILLIES STANDARD. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Made in Melbourne Vic. Aluminium alloy body and drum (spool) black paint finish; brass reel foot (saddle); knurled brass button adjustable check; metal line guide; ebonite handle knob; screws of brass. Diameter 3 3/8''; drum (spool) width 3/4''. The Standard Reel, J M Gillies Carlton Vic stamped on the back plate -c. 1930s. Very rare.

J M  Gillies Standard (fixed check) Fly fishing reel -c.1930s.

1- Gillies Standard vintage Fly reel
2- Gillies Standard vintage Fly reel

G M GILLIES STANDARDMetal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Made in Melbourne Vic. Aluminium alloy body and drum (spool) black paint finish; brass reel foot (saddle); fixed check; metal line guide; ebonite handle knob; screws of brass. Diameter 3 3/8''; drum (spool) width 3/4''. The Standard Reel, J M Gillies Carlton Vic stamped on the back plate -c. 1930s. Very rare.

KINGSTON Fly fishing reel, probably made in Australia.

3- Kingston Fly fishing vintage reel
1- KINGSTON vintage Fly fishing reel
1- Kingston Fly fishing vintage reel
2- Kingston Fly fishing vintage reel

KINGSTON. Metal revolving plate-lipped contracted drum fly reel. Maker unknown. Aluminium alloy construction; frame black finish. Diameter 3 7/16''; drum (spool) width 13/16''; brass screw optional check adjustment; circular line guide; ebonite handle knob. KINGSTON FLY REEL  stamped on the back plate -c. 1950s. Very rare.

KINGSTON Aluminium finish (non painted, non anodised model) Fly fishing reel, probably made in Australia.

KINGSTON. Metal revolving plate 'lipped' contracted drum fly reel. Maker unknown. Original Raw finished Aluminium alloy construction. Diameter 3 7/16''; drum (spool) width 13/16''; brass screw optional check adjustment; circular line guide; ebonite handle knob. KINGSTON FLY REEL  stamped on the back plate -c. 1950s. Very rare.

1- KINGSTON vintage Fly reel
2-Vintage Fly reel KINGSTON
3- KINGSTON vintage Fly reel

KIEWA Fly fishing reel made in Victoria, Australia.

1- KIEWA vintage Fly fishing reel
3- KIEWA vintage Fly fishing reel
4- KIEWA vintage Fly fishing reel
2- KIEWA vintage Fly fishing reel

KIEWA. Metal revolving plate contacted drum fly reel. Maker unknown. Aluminium alloy back plate diameter 3 1/2'';  Aluminium alloy perforated drum (spool) width 5/8''; fixed check (internally adjustable) circular plated metal line guide; brass saddle (foot) brass spool release screw; ebonite handle knob. KIEWA stamped on the back plate -c 1930s.  Rare.

KIEWA Standard Fly fishing reel made in Victoria, Australia.

1- Kiewa vintage Fly fishing reel
1- Kiewa vintage Fly fishing reel
1-Kiewa vintage Fly fishing reel

KIEWA. Metal revolving plate contacted drum fly reel. Maker unknown. Aluminium alloy back plate diameter 3 1/2'';  Aluminium alloy non-perforated drum (spool) width 5/8''; fixed check (internally adjustable); non-line guide model; nickel plated brass saddle (foot); nickel plated brass spool release screw; ebonite handle knob. KIEWA font straight stamped on the back plate -c 1930s.  Very rare.

Lesta Fly fishing reel -c. 1930s.

1-Lesta vintage Fly fishing reel
3- Lesta vintage Fly fishing reel
2- Lesta vintage Fly fishing reel

LESTA. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Maker unknown. Diameter 3 3/8''; drum (spool) width 1/2''; ventilated drum (spool) gold anodised; fixed check; optional RH/LH line guide; eronoid handle knob; weight 5oz. LESTA stamped on the back plate -c. 1950s. Rare.

Monty Fly fishing reel -c. 1930s.

1- Monty vintage fly fishing reel
2- Monty vintage fly fishing reel
3-Monty vintage fly fishing reel
4- Monty vintage fly fishing reel

MONTY. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. William (Bill) Southam, Sydney NSW. Aluminium alloy back plate diameter 3 1/2''; Aluminium alloy ventilated drum (spool) width 5/8''; spring-loaded drum release screw; brass saddle (foot) fixed check (internally adjustable); circular nickel plated line guide; ebonite handle knob.  The "MONTY" REEL Maker Wm Southam Sydney stamped on the back plate -c. 1930s. Very rare.

Pipgras Fly fishing reel -c. 1930s -1940s.

1- Pipgras vintage Fly fishing reel
3- Pipgras vintage Fly fishing reel
2- Pipgras vintage Fly fishing reel

PIPGRAS. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Maker Eric Pipgras, Melbourne Vic. A high-quality fishing reel, machined from aluminium alloy bar stock. Brass ribbed reel foot (saddle); brass optional check button; nickel silver rimmed agate insert line guide; Jade handle knob - counterbalanced; screws of brass.  Diameter 3 1/2''; frame (body) width 1'' -c. 1930s - 1940s. Extremely rare.

Rainbow Fly fishing reel Adjustable Check Line Guide model (Deluxe version). Produced for Hartleys -c.1936.

1- Rainbow vintage Fly fishing reel made
3- Rainbow vintage Fly fishing reel
4- Rainbow vintage Fly fishing reel
2- Rainbow vintage Fly fishing reel
5- Rainbow vintage Fly fishing reel

RAINBOW. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Produced for Hartley's sports stores and made in Melbourne Vic, maker unknown. Aluminium alloy body and drum (spool), black surface finish; back plate diameter 3 9/16''; drum (spool) width 3/4''; brass ribbed reel foot (saddle); nickel plated brass spool release screw; brass saddle (foot); nickel plated brass adjustable check button; nickel silver rimmed agate insert line guide; ebonite handle knob.   The " RAINBOW " SIZE 3 5/8" FLY REEL stamped on the back plate -c. 1936. Very rare in this condition.

Rainbow Fly fishing reel Fixed Check Line Guide model. Produced for Hartleys  -c.1936.

1- RAINBOW vintage fly fishing reel
3- RAINBOW vintage fly fishing reel
2- RAINBOW vintage fly fishing reel
4- RAINBOW vintage fly fishing reel

RAINBOW. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Produced for Hartley's sports stores and made in Melbourne Vic, maker unknown. Aluminium alloy body and drum (spool), black surface finish; back plate diameter 3 9/16''; drum (spool) width 3/4''; brass ribbed reel foot (saddle); nickel plated brass spool release screw; brass saddle (foot); fixed check (internally adjustable); nickel silver rimmed agate insert line guide; ebonite handle knob.   SIZE 3 5/8" " RAINBOW "  FLY REEL stamped on the back plate -c. 1936. Rare.

Rainbow Fly reel Fixed Check Non Line Guide model. Made by Hartleys -c.1936.

1- Rainbow vintage Fly reel
2- Rainbow vintage Fly reel
1- Rainbow fixed check vintage Fly reel
4- Rainbow vintage Fly reel
5- Rainbow vintage Fly reel

RAINBOW. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Made in-house by Hartley's sports stores, Melbourne Vic. Aluminium alloy body and drum (spool), black surface finish; back plate diameter 3 9/16''; drum (spool) width 3/4''; brass ribbed reel foot (saddle); nickel plated brass spool release screw; brass saddle (foot); fixed check (internally adjustable); no line guide; ebonite handle knob.   MADE BY HARTLEYS SPORTS, STORES SIZE 3 5/8''  " THE RAINBOW " FLY REEL stamped on the back plate -c. 1936. Rare.

Rainbow Fly reel Fixed Check  Line Guide model. Made by Hartleys -c.1936.

1- RAINBOW vintage fly fishing reel
1- RAINBOW vintage fly fishing reel
2- RAINBOW vintage fly fishing reel
2- RAINBOW vintage fly fishing reel
3- RAINBOW vintage fly fishing reel

RAINBOW. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Made in-house by Hartley's sports stores, Melbourne Vic. Aluminium alloy body and drum (spool), black surface finish; back plate diameter 3 9/16''; drum (spool) width 3/4''; brass ribbed reel foot (saddle); nickel plated brass spool release screw; brass saddle (foot); fixed check (internally adjustable); nickel silver rimmed agate insert line guide; ebonite handle knob.   MADE BY HARTLEYS SPORTS, STORES SIZE 3 5/8''  " THE RAINBOW " FLY REEL stamped on the back plate -c. 1936. Rare.

Rainbow Bakelite Fly reel. Made by H. B. Chalmers, Melbourne Vic. -c.1940s.

1- Rainbow Bakelite vintage Fly reel
3- Rainbow Bakelite vintage Fly reel
2- Rainbow Bakelite vintage Fly reel & Box
3- Rainbow Bakelite vintage Fly reel & Box
5- Rainbow Bakelite vintage Fly reel
1- Rainbow Bakelite vintage Fly reel
2- Rainbow Bakelite vintage Fly reel
6- Rainbow Bakelite vintage Fly reel

RAINBOW. Bakelite revolving plate fly reel. Made by H. B. Chalmers, Melbourne Vic. Semi-shrouded frame, brass optional check lever; ventilated drum (spool; back plate diameter 3 7/16''; drum (spool) width 1''; nickel plated reel foot (saddle); brass spool release screw; eronoid handle knob. RAINBOW moulded on the backplate,  H. B. Chalmers Australite Mouldings Melbourne moulded inside back plate  -c. 1940s. Extremely Rare with a box.

Rodkraft Senior Perforated Drum Fly fishing reel with box -c.1935.

1- Rodkraft Senior vintage Fly reel
2-Rodkraft Senior vintage Fly reel
2-Rod Kraft Senior vintage Fly reel

Rodkraft Senior. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Made in Melbourne Vic, maker unknown. Aluminium alloy body and drum (spool) black paint finish; perforated drum; brass reel foot (saddle); brass adjustable check button; circular plated metal line guide; ebonite handle knob; screws of brass. Diameter 3 3/8"; drum (spool) width 3/4'' -c. 1935.  Very rare with the original box. The only known advertisement for this reel appeared in the Melbourne Sports Depot  Catalogue No. 33 c. 1935. (Bob Dunn supplement No.2 - 1995)

Rodkraft Senior Ventilated Drum Fly fishing reel -c.1935.

5- Rod Kraft Senior Fly reel
3-Rod Kraft Senior fly reel
4-Rod Kraft Senior fly reel

Rodkraft Senior. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Made in Melbourne Vic, maker unknown. Aluminium alloy body and drum (spool) black paint finish; perforated different size drum holes; brass reel foot (saddle); brass adjustable check button; circular plated metal line guide; ebonite handle knob; screws of brass. Diameter 3 3/8''; drum (spool) width 3/4'' -Rod kraft REGD SENIOR stamped on back plate -c. 1935. Very rare.

Rodkraft Junior Fly fishing reel -c.1935.

1- Rod Kraft 'Junior' vintage Fly fishing reel
2- Rod Kraft 'Junior' vintage Fly fishing reel
3- Rod Kraft 'Junior' vintage Fly reel
1- RODKRAFT JUNIOR vintage Fly reel
1- Rodkraft Junior vintage Fly reel with Box

Rodkraft Junior. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Made in Melbourne Vic, maker unknown.

Aluminium alloy body and drum (spool); black finish; fixed check; metal foot (saddle) plated metal line guide; ebonite handle knob; diameter 3 3/8'' drum (spool) width 15/16''. Rod Kraft REGD JUNIOR stamped on the back plate -c 1935. Very rare.

Silver King Fly Fishing Reel was Designed and Made by Jack Crouch, in Melbourne, Australia around 1930. By Bernie Ladd, 2/8/2014.

During November 2013, an ARCA member personally communicated to the Museum at Dunolly Victoria, the need to identify a specific CROUCH stamped reel, which he had found among those that the Museum held. The damaged reel had been recovered from discarded items by J T Crouch & Sons Pty Ltd factory, after its closure in 1968. ARCA subsequently sought advice from me in identifying the reel. After research and examination of the available historical data, my immediate impression was confirmed that indeed among the reels displayed at the Dunolly Museum, is an extremely rare Crouch Reel designed and manufactured, possibly as a prototype that became the production model branded ''The Silver King Reel". On behalf of ARCA my conclusions were further validated by Jack Crouch Jr himself, who has firmly ascertained the reel's origin by announcing decisively that: "My father (Jack Crouch Senior) made these reels." Research shows that The Silver King Reel was exclusively made for J. M. Gillies Pty Ltd, College Cres, Carlton, Victoria, and is now confirmed by Jack Crouch Jr. We at ARCA are proud to maintain the efficacy of our appraisal of the authenticity of collectible reels, in order to preserve their historical context in which they were manufactured and utilized.

1-Vintage Silver King Fly reel maker Crouch
2-Fly reel Silver King makerJack Crouch
3-Fly reel Silver King maker Jack Crouch

SILVER KING. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Made by Jack Crouch, Fairfield Melbourne Vic. Aluminium alloy body and drum (spool) black paint finish; perforated drum (spool); brass reel foot (saddle); brass counterbalanced drum (spool)  release latch; brass button adjustable check; nickel silver rimmed agate insert line guide; ebonite handle knob; screws of brass. Diameter 3 1/8''; drum (spool) width 15/16''. The Silver King Reel J M Gillies Carlton Vic stamped on the back plate -c. 1930. This particular version is the very rare first model with the special spool release latch unlike other fly reels produced for Melbourne Vic, retailer 'J M Gillies'

1- Crouch Silver King prototype Fly Fishing reel
2- Crouch Silver King prototype reel

This Crouch prototype became the production model stamped The Silver King Reel, made for J.M. Gillies, Melbourne Vic. J. T. Crouch Melbourne stamped on back plate

 -c. 1930. Extremely rare. Courtesy Dunolly Museum Vic.

SILVER KING Vintage Fly Fishing Reel. Crafted for J. M. Gillies, Melbourne Vic, Australia— Likely by W. H. Dingley.

 Introduction: Following contact from Jim Allen, founder of the Compleat Angler store in Melbourne's CBD, Victoria, who provided information suggesting that the Silver King fly reel was produced by 'Walker Bampton in Alnwick', I was impelled to use this information to track down and conclusively ascertain factual details of its maker as described below.

 History: After he departed from Hardy's in 1911, W.H. Dingley began manufacturing fly fishing reels at J.J.S. Walker Bampton & Co in Alnwick. An important observation is that while Dingley was employed at Walker Bampton, he also supplied reels to other companies. Upon a thorough examination and comparison of the fly reel branded Walker Bampton with the Silver King reel stamped 'Made in England' on its foot, it becomes evident that the internal mechanisms of both reels are indeed identical. The external appearances of the two reels also coincide in every aspect. Therefore, we have concluded that the Silver King reel, stamped 'Made in England' for J.W. Gillies in Melbourne, is identical to the Walker Bampton reel. The likely maker of the Silver King reel around 1935 was W.H. Dingley during his tenure at J.J.S. Walker Bampton & Co in Alnwick, England.

1- Silver King vintage Fly reel
6- Silver King vintage Fly reel
5- Silver King vintage Fly reel
3- Silver King vintage Fly reel
2- Silver King vintage Fly reel
4- Silver King vintage Fly reel
Silver King Fly Rel

SILVER KING. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Made for J. M. Gillies, Melbourne VicLikely by W. H. Dingley. Aluminium alloy body and drum (spool) black paint finish; ventilated drum (spool); lever drum (spool) release latch; nickel-plated brass reel foot (saddle); brass rim edge check adjustment button; circular bronze line guide; erinoid handle knob; Diameter 3 1/8''; drum (spool) width 3/4''.  "Silver King "  3 1/8" J. M. Gillies Pty Ltd Melbourne stamped on the back plate. Made in England stamped on the side of the reel foot and 19 on the other side of the foot -c. around 1935. Hard to find in near-mint condition.

1-Silver King Fly fishing reel invoice

J. M. Gillies Pty. Ltd. Invoice addressed to Mr. J. Allen, dated 9th October 1968.

This historical document serves as compelling evidence that the iconic Silver King Fly reel, originally introduced around 1935, remained accessible for purchase well into the late 1960s.

Spalding Deluxe Fly fishing reel -c.1947.

1- Spalding Deluxe vintage fly reel
5- Spalding Deluxe vintage fly reel
3- Spalding Deluxe vintage fly reel
2- Spalding Deluxe vintage fly reel
4- Spalding Deluxe vintage fly reel
6- Spalding Deluxe vintage fly reel

SPALDING DELUXE. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Made for A. G. Spalding by George Cussons & Co, Carlton  Vic. Aluminium alloy body and drum (spool) black finish; nickel plated brass reel foot (saddle); metal line guide; erinoid handle knob; rim edge adjustable check; screws of brass, nickel plated. Diameter 3 3/8''; perforated drum (spool) width 1''. Spalding Silverstream De Luxe stamped on back plate -c. 1947.

Spalding Standard (narrow drum version) Fly fishing reel -c.1947.

1- Spalding Standard vintage Fly fishing reel
2- Spalding Standard vintage Fly fishing reel
5- Spalding Standard vintage Fly fishing reel
4- Spalding Standard vintage Fly reel
3- Spalding Standard vintage Fly reel
6- Spalding Standard vintage Fly reel

SPALDING STANDARD. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Made for A. G. Spalding by George Cussons & Co, Carlton  Vic. Aluminium alloy body and drum (spool) black finish; nickel plated brass reel foot (saddle); plated metal line guide; erinoid handle knob; fixed check; screws of brass, nickel plated. Diameter 3 3/8''; drum (spool) width 3/4''. Spalding Silverstream Standard stamped on the back plate -c. 1947. Hard to find in original condition.

Spalding Standard (wide drum version) Fly fishing reel -c.1947.

1- SPALDING standard line guide model
4- SPALDING reel standard model
3- SPALDING standard reel
2- SPALDING standard line guide reel
5- SPALDING standard line guide reel

SPALDING STANDARD. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Made for A. G. Spalding by George Cussons & Co, Carlton  Vic. Aluminium alloy body and drum (spool) black finish; nickel plated brass reel foot (saddle); metal line guide (internally riveted). ' The handle knob repair fitted to this particular model is not factory original '.  Fixed check; screws of brass, nickel plated; rim line-hook attachment post. Diameter 3 3/8''; drum (spool) width 1 ''. Spalding Silverstream Standard stamped on back plate in larger font -c. 1947. Hard to find in original condition.

Streamcraft Deluxe Fly fishing reel with original box -c.1948.

2-Streamcraft deluxe reel
3- Streamcraft Deluxe vintage Fly reel
4- Streamcraft Deluxe vintage Fly reel
5-Streamcraft Deluxe vintage Fly reel
1- Streamcraft Deluxe vintage Fly reel

STREAMCRAFT DELUXE. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Aluminium alloy three-piece body;  black anodised; diameter 3 3/8''; ventilated drum (spool) width 3/4''; nickel plated brass optional check adjustment button; ball bearings spindle supported; nickel silver rimmed agate insert line guide; erinoid handle knob; weight 7 oz. The " Streamcraft " Deluxe Fly Reel is stamped on the handle plate. Maker Victor Yann, Heidelberg Vic, Australia -c.1948. Very rare with the original box.

Streamcraft Standard Fly fishing reel with original box-c.1948.

1- Streamcraft Standard vintage Fly reel
3- Streamcraft Standard vintage Fly reel
2- Streamcraft Standard vintage Fly reel
4- Streamcraft Standard vintage Fly reel

STREAMCRAFT STANDARD. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Aluminium alloy frame, black anodised; diameter 3 3/8''; gold anodised drum (spool) width 3/4'' ; fixed check; gold anodised metal foot (saddle) Streamcraft  Standard stamped on the back plate. Maker Victor Yann, Heidelberg Vic, Australia -c.1948. Very rare with the original box.

Superflex Shannon Fly fishing reel -c.1950.

2- Superflex Shannon vintage Fly fishing reel
1- Superflex Shannon vintage Fly fishing reel

SUPERFLEX SHANNON. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Basser Millyyard, Sydney, NSW. Diecast alloy construction with grey baked enamel finish, fixed check, diameter 3 5/8'', weight 7 oz. Superflex "Shannon " Fly Reel Made in Australia cast in relief on the back plate -c. 1950. ( A F R supplement No. 4 - 1997. )

Tasma 10 Fly fishing reel -c.1935.

1- TASMA 10 vintage Fly Fishing reel
4- TASMA 10 vintage Fly Fishing reel
3- TASMA 10 vintage Fly Fishing reel
2- TASMA 10 vintage Fly Fishing reel

TASMA. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Model 10 made by R. R. Taylor, Sydney, NSW.  for Stewart & Allwood. Aluminium alloy construction with gold dye finish; adjustable check, diameter 3 1/2''; ventilated drum (spool) width 5/8''; agate line guide; weight 7oz. " Tasma "  10  stamped on the back plate -c. 1935. Very rare.

Tasma 8 Fly fishing reel -c.1935.

1- Tasma 8 vintage fly fishing reel
2- Tasma 8 vintage fly fishing reel
3- Tasma 8 vintage fly fishing reel

TASMA. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Model 8 made by R. R. Taylor, Sydney, NSW.  for Stewart & Allwood. Aluminium alloy construction with gold dye finish; fixed check, diameter 3 1/2''; drum (spool) width 5/8''; agate line guide; weight 7oz. " Tasma "  8  stamped on the back plate -c. 1935. Very rare.

Troutmaster Fly fishing reel with original box -c.1950s.

1- Troutmaster vintage Fly reel
2- Troutmaster vintage Fly reel
3- Troutmaster Fly reel
5- Troutmaster vintage Fly reel
4- Troutmaster vintage Fly fishing reel made in Australia
6- Troutmaster vintage Fly reel

TROUTMASTER. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly ree. Die-cast alloy construction with grey baked enamel finish, fixed check, diameter 3 5/8''; drum (spool) width 3/4''; ebonite handle knob; weight 186 gr. " TROUTMASTER " REEL Made in Australia cast in relief on the back plate -c. 1950s. Very rare with the original box.

Walton Perforated Drum Fly fishing reel -c.1940s.

1- Walton ventilated Drum  Fly reel
2- Walton ventialted Drum Fly reel
5- Walton ventialted Drum Fly fishing reel
3- Walton ventialted Drum vintage reel
4- Walton ventialted Drum vintage Fly reel
6- Walton ventialted Drum Fly reel

WALTON Perforated Drum. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Made in Melbourne Vic. Aluminium alloy body and drum (spool) black finish frame; grey finish drum (spool)  brass reel foot (saddle); nickel-plated bronze line guide; ebonite handle knob; fixed check; screws of brass; Diameter 3 7/16''; perforated drum (spool) width 13/16''. Weight 176 gr. WALTON stamped on the back plate -c. 1940s. Very hard to find in this condition.

Walton Fly fishing reel -c.1940s.

1- WALTON vintage Fly fishing reel
2- WALTON vintage Fly reel
4- WALTON vintage Fly reel
5- WALTON vintage Fly reel
3- WALTON vintage Fly reel
6- WALTON vintage Fly reel

WALTON. Metal revolving plate contracted drum fly reel. Made in Melbourne Vic. Aluminium alloy body and drum (spool) black finish frame; grey finish drum (spool)  brass reel foot (saddle); nickel plated bronze line guide; ebonite handle knob; fixed check; screws of brass;

Diameter 3 7/16''; drum (spool) width 13/16''. Weight 178 gr. WALTON stamped on the back plate -c. 1940s. Hard to find.

W. F. D.  Fly fishing reel. W. F. Dawson, Engineering Co. Orange N. S. W. -c.1950s. Very rare.

1- Dawson vintage Fly fishing reel & Box
4- Dawson  vintage Fly reel
3-  Dawson vintage Fly fishing reel
2- Dawson Fly reel insruction sheet

Victor Yann made Fly fishing reel circa 1930s-1940s.
History
The Yann 'heavy duty' ventilated drum fly reel was purpose-built by engineer Mr.Victor Yann of Heilderberg Victoria around the 1940s-1950s, who also produced the Streamcraft and Atlas Fly reels for the Australian domestic market. Yann referred to this specific fly reel depicted below as the “Tasmanian.” The reel’s special design feature is the solid Aluminium alloy body and ventilated drum, which was machined from Aluminium alloy bar stock, and modeled on the classic fly reel design.

The origin of Yann “Tasmanian” has been identified by well acclaimed Fly tier and author, Mick Hall, of Ballarat Victoria. Mick received the “Tasmanian” Fly reel as a gift from the late Bill Auston back in 2001, when Bill visited Mick at his home in Eildon Victoria. The said gift was significant because Bill Auston had the pleasure of meeting Victor Yann back in the 1940s, when Yann stayed over in his lodge near the banks of the Goulburn River, to fish a well-known Dome Hole below the wall of Lake Eildon. Mick Hall has kindly provided images of the Yann “Tasmanian” Fly reel and his account about who made the 'Tasmanian', in a personal letter (see below) sent to me on the 5th of March 2021, in which he describes and verifies, who made the Yann “Tasmanian” Fly reel, and what was its purpose (i.e. designed to fish Trout up to 10Lbs).  

It’s pertinent to comment that is not known if the Yann “Tasmanian”, was a prototype made with the intention of future production; whether it was made by Yann for personal use, or whether it was made on order from Yann’s engineering company. Ladd. B. 6/3/2001.

“ Hi Bernie,
Back in 2001, the late Bill Austin called into our home at Eildon bearing a gift, an old fly reel that was given to him by Victor Yann Back in the 1940s. During that period Bill Auston and family were running a lodge almost on the banks of the Goulburn River, and very close to the famous Dome Hole below the wall of Lake Eildon. The Lake at that time held a huge population of small Galaxiids and at times schools of them would be sucked over the tiered wall and into the Dome hole below, stunning themselves as they fell, only to be picked up by the waiting trout below. These trout were big, 6lb were common with the occasional 10-pounder in the mix. Anglers, mostly fly fishers, would wade out onto a gravel bar and cast Smelt imitations into the fast-flowing stream in the hope of catching and landing one of these brutes. Those anglers needed strong gear, large reels with plenty of line. Many of these anglers were notable fly fishers of the day, and most stayed at Bill's lodge. So did Victor Yann who in turn gave this reel to Bill Auston. Bill told me that Victor Yann called it the Tasmanian, tough and rugged to handle those big fish and at the same time hold a lot of line.  Mick Hall "

Tasmanian vintage fly reel
Tasmanian vintage fly reel
3- Victor Yann Tasmanian Fly reel
1-Victor Yann "Tasmanian" Fly reel
1- Fly Tier and Author Mick Hall

Victor Yann "Tasmanian". Metal revolving plate contracted drum centre pin release latch fly reel. Maker Victor Yann, Melbourne Vic. Body and ventilated drum (spool)  machined from Aluminium alloy stock Bar, black anodised finish; metal foot (saddle); nickel silver-rimmed, agate insert line guide; ebonite handle; brass optional check mechanism. Diameter 3 7/8''; drum (spool) width 1''. Weight 14oz. Extremely rare; only example is known!

Victor Yann (un-branded Streamcraft) Fly fishing reel -c.1940s.

1- Fly reel maker Victor Yann
2- Fly reel maker Victor Yann

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3- Fly reel maker Victor Yann

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