Abstract:
Dean describes the work of Raleigh resident Erick Umstead, who builds fine, split-cane fishing rods. The handcrafted rods are built from tonkin cane which is imported from a small province in China. The rod is built of six cane strips and is strong enough to catch bass, trout, or salmon. Rods take several weeks to construct and cost between $400 to $2,000.