Payne 98 L
~Payne 98-L, 7 ft. 2pc/2 tips, 2¼ oz. This very rare, uncatalogued model is the lightest action 7 ft. Payne I've had in my hand, certainly much lighter action than the model 97's I've sold. I have cast the rod with a DT2 Sci Ang Amplitude line and that feels correct for me, though for very close fishing a #3 line would also work. The ferrule size is smaller than a #9 on this two piece Payne with a tip dimension of .058" over varnish below the wrap at the tip top. All sections full length and excellent ferrule fits on this "sold by" A&F rod; no ferrule plugs nor room for them in the tube, so made before 1948. Agate stripping guide and American pattern snake guides. There may be a thin overcoat of varnish over original wraps and finish, hard to say. The transition from reel-seat to cork is something I don't know I've seen before; almost Leonard-like with the step up in the wood and going directly to the cork with no check. Blueing mostly gone on the slide band, mostly there on butt cap and ferrules as seen in the photos. Varnish could use some TLC in a few spots, but quite good for a rod of this vintage. The slightest of sweeps to the left when assembled indicates use by a left hander at some point, but certainly not objectionable. In original bag with tag and Payne tube. A rare Payne for the light line, small stream specialist. SOLD
