Masaki Takemoto model 0303Y 8'6" 3pc/2 tips
Masaki Takemoto model 0303Y 8'6" 3pc/2 tips semi-hollow with composite ferrules. I have known Mr. Takemoto for many years, having met him at the Catskill Fly Fishing Center and Museum where he would for several years win the bamboo distance casting event. His internal hollow build is similar to what some people call the 'magic square', leaving much of the rod interior hollow, but with outer walls supported by an internal bracing. This is all created in his "Bamboo Rod Laboratory" in Japan. What sets Take's rods apart is a subtle understanding of rod taper and feel; his rods are among the most comfortable and impressive I have come across and I feel his work is very much under-appreciated and under-priced for the quality of design and workmanship. Snake guides are his own patent pending single foot design matched to ultra light single foot tip tops. Finish is a fine Japanese oil which is lovely, with varnish covering the one line of writing above the grip. Rod remains in mint condition with original bag (stiffener in extra compartment) and labeled tube.
