Vintage braided casting line

[Mike N]

I have started to put vintage silk line on my Kentucky reels and tournament reels. I prefer the aesthetics of a red/white or black/white, braided, lighter-test line. I just think it makes the reel look "real," and not just like some display case collectible.

Does anyone have a link to an article or other resource on what brand and type of fishing lines were used from 1880 to 1920 on small casting (Kentucky size 2 or 3) reels? I would like to be as historically accurate as possible. Second, does anyone have a source to buy the vintage line, with or without a wooden spool, other than randomly on eBay?

Thanks,

Mike Nogay

[Steve]

Mike, our mentor, Dr. Henshall, discusses lines in great depth in BofBB, though recommendations vary with the edition. The recommendations no doubt apply to whatever reels are in use, Ky. or otherwise. These folks should be able to help. Paul's email address is way down the page under Ordering Instructions.

[Mike N]

Thank you, Steve. That's the first I've heard of the historical fishing website you linked. It's great.

[EclecticGuy]

Paul is a friend of mine and a great guy. I have some of all of his lines (except horse hair since I make those myself - but he does have some of my horse hair lines). The silk line I have is furled not braided since his period of interest is the 1400s to mid 1800s. You should ask him though since he doesn't keep his web site up to date and may have sources for what you are looking for.

cheers,
Michael

[Ron Mc]

here's Doc Henshall's complete book on google
http://books.google.com.au/books?id=wmc ... &q&f=false

and the chapter on lines
http://books.google.com.au/books?id=wmc ... &q&f=false