I have over 40 mint conditions rods which were passed to me from my father. Mostly from the 80's-90's. I'll keep a few but have enough of my own.  I have been searching the internet for value, entering the brand name and model numbers but nothing has been coming up. Does anyone know where I could go to get an accurate estimate on the value of these rods? They have been in hard cased rod holders, some never used, others maybe a time or two. I haven't even started on the reels or crank baits yet. I appreciate your time.

Right now they're at that age where they probably aren't worth a whole lot. I could be wrong though. I'd guess that if you hold them for a few years they'll go up, or at least some of them will. You can probably find some info on the rods like original retail price if you call the manufactures. You can also check out old Bass Pro or Cabela's catalogs. 

Thanks WIGuide. I was thinking about contacting the manufactures but just haven't got around to it yet. I know some are from the 70's as well. Some still have the original price on them. I also found some lighters and pens that were new in boxes with prices around $2-$3 bucks, but they are selling for $60-$70 on e-bay! Best to you.

 

I don't know where you live but,  here in the mid-Atlantic,  there are numerous fishing flea markets throughout the winter.  Tables are sold for a small fee and you come in and sell your gear to eager buyers looking for a deal.  

80's and 90's is vintage ?  Holy crap, I feel old.  I have scars that are vintage.

28 minutes ago, Columbia Craw said:

80's and 90's is vintage ?  Holy crap, I feel old.  I have scars that are vintage.

Naw, they're not old yet and they won't hold much in terms of values...in general.  It's a matter of finding the right person is all. There are guys out there who will have sentimental attachments to specific rods and they'll pay stupid money for them.  I got past all that, rather have new gear than sentiments.

What are some of the rods that you you have? 

Make a list of make, model, type of rods and you will get some imput as to value.

Tom

If you have the 5'3" Berkley Lightning Rod -  Med/extra fast tip, pistol grip,  I'll take that one off your hands and give it a good home.  That was only manufactured for a couple of years in the mid 80's.   Mine was stolen long ago.

I think that if you have any of the old Shimano Beastmaster rods, those would be worth something.   I thought those rods were way ahead of their time and I haven't seen a similar design since.

Post a list of the different rods & reels and see what others guys say.

13 hours ago, Jeff H said:

Naw, they're not old yet and they won't hold much in terms of values...in general.  It's a matter of finding the right person is all. There are guys out there who will have sentimental attachments to specific rods and they'll pay stupid money for them.  I got past all that, rather have new gear than sentiments.

 

Question? What is stupid money ??

Are the new rods&reels today made better, than an 80s model? Some yes, but most no.

I can do pretty much anything with my 4600s&5500s ive had for up to 25 years.

New and improved isnt always better, and does not make a better fisherman.

To the OP, id like to see a list also of the rod and reels. You can also try selling them in the fleamarket section here. Although the shipping maybe a issue. Good luck sir

By stupid money I just meant more than they're really worth...in general.  I do understand that they would be worth exactly whatever somebody is willing to pay!

I have a very nice, hardly used 5600AL in fantastic cosmetic and mechanical condition that I will trade you for a decent, used Tatula.  That would seem to be a win/win for both of us. 

My last two trips I used a rod I made in 1967 and one I bought off a cousin in 1976 - put new guides on one they work as good as ever. But I couldn't get $1 out of either one.

Some of the rods from that time period I still use . 

Some might be surprised at the fairly active market in vintage fishing tackle existing on eBay and other sites.

Some 70s rods and reels are selling for more than they went for new.  As always, condition and desirability determine price.  The OP should post some names and model numbers for opinions.  Pics would also help.