Mario Wojnicki model 246L5 8'1"
~M. Wojnicki model 246L5 very early 8'1" (246cm) 2pc/2 tips semi-hollow hexagonal. From the serial number, and from a recent phone conversation with Mario Wojnicki about this rod, this rod was built in 1988, so well before he and I started sharing shop space in El Cerrito, CA. Mario tells me that the 'L' designation denotes a slower taper and lighter action rod, but still for a #5 line. We have the first truly warm day of spring today, so able to go out and cast; I will tell you this rod absolutely sings with a Triangle Taper 5 line and has plenty of power for more standard #5 lines as well. It is obvious from casting this rod, that Mario's talent as a builder showed from the very outset of his career. I would describe the action as medium / progressive; certainly not as semi-parabolic as later work he became known for, perhaps a touch closer to the tapers I still prefer today in my own building. The Swiss style ferrule is a size 13 and tip top is a 4½. The stripping guide is ceramic and snakes are hard chrome under translucent wraps almost clear as in Everett Garrison's work, and double-wrapped next to the guide a 'la Winston and early Howells rods. Tip top wraps are differentiated to identify each tip for those who like to 'rotate' their use. Rod is straight as a pin and varnish perfect, overall condition at least excellent. A significant rod in the history of modern west coast hollow-building, this could very easily become your favorite all-round trout rod. In original bag and tube. SOLD Click on smaller images to enlarge
