Fenwick Fishing Rods

The History of Fenwick Fishing

Fenwick Fishing 

The Fenwick company was named for a lake on the southeast side of Seattle. They actually got their start on the edge of a lake filled with bass. They are the makers of one of the earliest fiberglass rods. Its steady growth shows that some challenge, and some risk are needed to make it on the international level.  "Fisherman" is Copyrighted by Flickr user: Boy27wonder (Christopher Patterson) under the Creative Commons Attribution license.   

Beginnings 

Fenwick was formed by five inventive fishermen and one garage. The company was founded in 1952 and began with the creativity and tough physical labor of its creators. Fiberglass blanks had just hit the market and gave rod manufacturers an opportunity to make light, sturdy rods. The introduction of Fenwick’s fiberglass rod to bass fisherman was a giant success and led to the branding of the new company.  

New Start 

Businessman Phil Clock bought the company and took it in a new direction. Bass fishing tournaments were a big thing in the 60’s, and Fenwick was known by anglers for producing lightweight rods. The introduction of their Lunker Stick quickly became bass anglers’ pride and joy and was an extra step in Fenwick’s rise as a world renowned manufacturer. With the purchase of Fenwick by businessman Phil Clock, the company started in a new direction.  

Graphite 

Graphite took this company where fiberglass could not. Graphite was lighter in weight, sturdier, and more pliable. The technological advancement opportunities weren’t available with the old rods. The High Modulus Graphite rod was released in 73’, and a new way of fishing began. Other products were released that also caused bass fishing to evolve, for example the heavy Flippin’ Stick that is used for close catches.  

New Technologies 

Fenwick’s success is ongoing. They have branched into specialized rods for different kinds of catch.  

Worldwide 

Fenwick fishing rods are passed along by generations. Like many things, Fenwick rods are made in China now. This has had little effect on its following. American anglers still speak fondly of their Fenwick models. Many people discuss Fenwick’s earlier models which are still in use to this day.