The 1959 Hardy Parakona Bamboo “Cyce De France” 8Ft Fly Rod: A Collector’s Dream
Few fly fishing rods command the reverence and admiration of the 1959 Hardy Parakona Bamboo “Cyce De France” 8Ft. This legendary rod, crafted by Hardy—one of the most esteemed names in fly fishing—represents the pinnacle of bamboo rod craftsmanship. With its rich history, exceptional build quality, and limited availability, it’s a treasure for collectors and anglers alike.
In this guide, we’ll explore:
– The significance of this rare rod
– Key variations and types
– How to choose the best one for your needs
– Top 5 recommendations
– Buying considerations
– FAQs
—
1. The Legacy of the 1959 Hardy Parakona Bamboo “Cyce De France” 8Ft
Hardy’s Parakona series was renowned for its superior split-cane bamboo construction, offering unmatched sensitivity and action. The 1959 “Cyce De France” edition was a special release, celebrating cycling’s famous race, making it a rare collector’s item. Its 8-foot length provides a perfect balance for delicate presentations and powerful casts, ideal for trout and light salmon fishing.
—
2. Key Variations & Types
While the 1959 Hardy Parakona “Cyce De France” is a distinct model, variations exist based on:
– Condition: Mint, excellent, good, or restored
– Originality: Original varnish, guides, and wrappings vs. refurbished
– Line Weight: Typically designed for 4-6 weight lines
—
3. How to Choose the Best 1959 Hardy Parakona Fly Rod
When selecting one, consider:
✅ Authenticity: Look for original markings, Hardy logo, and provenance.
✅ Condition: Minor wear is expected, but avoid rods with major cracks or repairs.
✅ Action & Feel: Test the flex—should be smooth with a medium-slow action.
✅ Purpose: Ideal for collectors or anglers who appreciate vintage performance.
—
4. Top 5 Recommendations
1. Hardy Parakona “Cyce De France” 8Ft (Mint Condition, Original)
– Highlights: Unused, original tube, and bag.
– Pros:
– Pristine collector’s piece.
– Perfect action for delicate dry fly fishing.
– Rare and highly valuable.
– Cons: Extremely expensive; not for fishing use.
– Best For: Serious collectors.
2. Hardy Parakona “Cyce De France” (Excellent, Lightly Used)
– Highlights: Minimal wear, fully functional.
– Pros:
– Great balance between usability and collectibility.
– Smooth casting performance.
– Cons: Slight cosmetic wear.
– Best For: Anglers who also collect.
3. Restored Hardy Parakona (Professionally Refinished)
– Highlights: Like-new performance.
– Pros:
– Affordable compared to mint originals.
– Improved durability.
– Cons: Loses some originality.
– Best For: Those who want to fish with it.
4. Hardy Parakona “Cyce De France” (With Original Case & Papers)
– Highlights: Complete set with documentation.
– Pros:
– Higher resale value.
– Proven authenticity.
– Cons: Hard to find.
– Best For: Investors and historians.
5. Hardy Parakona Replica (Modern Custom Build)
– Highlights: Handmade to original specs.
– Pros:
– More affordable.
– New bamboo, no aging issues.
– Cons: Not original Hardy.
– Best For: Anglers who love the classic feel.
—
5. Buying Considerations
– Provenance: Ask for history or certificates.
– Inspect Carefully: Check for cracks, loose ferrules, and rewraps.
– Price: Expect $2,000+ for mint condition.
– Where to Buy: Reputable vintage dealers, auctions, or Hardy specialists.
—
6. FAQs
Q1: Is the 1959 Hardy Parakona still good for fishing?
A: Yes, if in good condition, but many prefer to preserve it as a collectible.
Q2: How can I verify authenticity?
A: Look for Hardy’s markings, original tube, and consult experts.
Q3: What line weight works best?
A: A 4-6 weight line matches its medium-slow action.
Q4: Can it be repaired if damaged?
A: Yes, but use a specialist to maintain value.
Q5: Why is it called “Cyce De France”?
A: It was a special edition celebrating the famous cycling race.
—
7. Final Thoughts & Call to Action
The 1959 Hardy Parakona Bamboo “Cyce De France” 8Ft is more than a fishing rod—it’s a piece of angling history. Whether you’re a collector, investor, or a fly fishing traditionalist, owning one is a privilege.
Ready to find yours? Check trusted vintage dealers or auctions—but act fast, as these rods rarely stay available for long!
Have questions? Drop them in the comments below! 🎣