For sale here is a very scarce 9' Paul H. Young Parabolic 17 bamboo rod. This is the only 9' Para 17 Model known to exist, as the typical Para 17 model was 8'6" in length. Two sections and two tips for a 7wt line. Made in May of 1951. The rod is in excellent plus restored condition. All sections are full length with a very slight set in one tip. Both tips were short when the rod was found and have been expertly scarfed to full length by Scott Whitman. Michael Sinclair performed the remaining restoration work, including a fresh varnish finish and new silk wraps.  

Lightly flamed, straw-colored cane. Chinese red wraps with spiral tipping. The script (95% retained in the restoration), in Paul Young's handwriting, reads: 

Walter Wolf St. Paul May 1951
"Parabolic 17" 9' 5 oz. 
17/64 Fer. 5 1/2/64 TipTop.
"H.C.F." - "H.C.H." or "D" Level
Paul H. Young Co. Detroit Maker.

The Garrision-style grip measures 7 7/8" with mild soiling and light ridging. Bright nickel silver cap and ring reel seat over a mortised cork spacer. The butt cap features the "PAUL H. YOUNG CO. DETROIT - MICH." stamp. The step-down Pernack ferrules are size 17/64 with a great fit. The rod weighs 5.35 oz. The action is a powerful and parabolic medium-fast. A very accurate long-range casting rod. Includes a replacement bag and the original tube.

This rod comes from the collection of Robert Golder, owner of the PHY Database.