Doug Blair

I remember reading Harry’s initial invitation on this list
and deciding, “Who better to follow into an unknown
stream.” As it happens, I hesitated and am only now
adding my two cents. My name is Doug Blair. I’ve been
lurking on the list for the past few years. Occasionally,
an idea is sparked from reading someone’s entry.
Occasionally, I tire when the thread turns to debate. On
the whole, however, I find it comforting and useful to
read the experiences of other makers...there’s a deep
appreciation for experiences that are not unlike my own.

Of my rod making I say, “Harry Boyd got me started.”
Several years ago Harry presented a program on bamboo rod
making at our fly rodders club annual conclave. He
unknowingly planted a seed that took. My commitment to
the process took a few years to “fester.” I’d tired of
building modern stuff and grew more and more fascinated by
the complexity and artistry of making bamboo rods.

In an early visit to Harry’s shop the deal was sealed.
His gracious and welcoming nature and obvious expertise
helped push me closer to that "black hole." Of course,
once you leap....Since then, reading Cattanach, Gould,
Garrison, this List and Power Fibers have mentored a grand
hobby. I’ve also enjoyed a special boost from attending
Rodmakers Gatherings...having special memories from the
Southern Gatherings and Canadian Cane. I can't deny that
an afternoon with Chet Croco and Darryl Whitehead had an
undeniable affect and ranks among my favorite schooling.

In writing this, I realize that I’m on my third career
after 20+ years at the local university here in
Lafayette....South Louisiana. After years as a therapist,
teacher and consultant, corporate HR now robs me of my
precious rod making time. Time at the bench is a great
challenge...and relief from all that prevents my
retirement.

My cold water fishing started when I was a boy in Ohio. A
braided line wrapped around a stick with a hook and a worm
did the trick on many an unsuspecting fish in Arcola
Creek. Years later I marveled at my youngest brother’s
prowess in catching a steelhead there using my first
fiberglass rod; this after I had made many empty-handed
trips to rivers such as the Deschutes. Luckily, I’ve had
better luck in some great places since children and
grandchildren have all settled in areas with wonderful
fishing. My 8 year-old grand daughter sports a cane rod
from my bench and is a patient student.

On the home front, most fishing has been on the coast in
the marsh and on the flats stalking redfish and sea trout.
While I’ve made a rod for use in the brackish water,
modern material has been the usual choice there. Our fly
rodder club has numerous activities for warm water fishing
and a couple of fellows fish with rods from my bench.
It’s a real joy to see a friend catch a bass, bream and
sac’a’lait (or carp) on a rod that I’ve made.