---

Riverkeepers:  Bamboo Rodmakers at Grayrock

Every year a bunch of bamboo rod fans, builders and flycasters gather at the Lovells Township Hall and celebrate elegant hand-made fly rods.

But these aren't your grandfather's fly rods.

Advances in techniques, precision and materials mean that bamboo, in the hands of a talented builder, can be better and more versatile than the rods that defined fly fishing before the days of fiberglass, graphite and boron. Seminars on ferrules, tapers and cane lead to spirited discussions that can go long into the night.

After 20 years they're not really sure why, but the event is called Rodmakers at Grayrock, and it is THE place to be in late June if you're a bamboo rod builder or fan.

The Riverkeepers series on AuSableTrout.com explores the work of organizations and volunteers who do good work for Michigan's northern rivers. We hope you'll consider contacting one of these organizations to join or volunteer. And if you have a good 'Riverkeeper' idea, please let us know at info@AuSableTrout.com.