This book is also a great reference for anyone interested in having a fly rod made for them. Not sure what rod components are traditionally acceptable on your rod? Looking through this book, you can see what all the classic rod makers & companies used to do. Maybe you need some inspiration in designing your rod. Well, with this book you can look to the past for a new idea. I like to use this book as a reference myself when thinking about what types of hardware look good on certain rods, what color schemes of wraps go well together, etc.
In addition to all the photos, the brief historical information is very useful as well. Hatton has laid the book out in chronological order, so you can literally see how the fly rod developed.
It couldn't have been an easy undertaking to write this book & we are all better for the great work Jeff has done here. If you're unfamiliar with this book, or weren't sure about getting a copy, do so. If you enjoy fly rods, you'll love this book.