*UPDATE 9/10/25: All but one of our Two-Hearted Bamboo Rods have been sold to raise money for TU’s Coaster Initiative except for Rod 001. This special rod will be available in December 2025 as a special fund-raising event. Thank you to everyone who donated to Trout Unlimited!!!
Cast with Purpose: Support Coaster Brook Trout Research
In a celebration of tradition, craftsmanship, and conservation, J.A. Henry has partnered with master rod builder Ron Barch of Alder Creek to create something exceptional: the Two-Hearted Bamboo Fly Rod. Handcrafted in Michigan, each rod is a rare heirloom—crafted not just for the passion of fly fishing, but to support the research and preservation of this remarkable fish.
This year, we are proud to donate one of these exceptional rods in support of Trout Unlimited’s Coaster Brook Trout Initiative—a vital effort to restore one of North America’s most iconic native fish to its historic range.
When you make a $1,500 donation to this important cause, you won’t just be supporting research of this amazing species—you’ll also receive a one-of-a-kind Two-Hearted Bamboo Fly Rod, a piece of functional art rooted in the heritage of the waters we aim to protect.
We only build one or two of these rods each year. This is your opportunity to own a truly rare creation and be part of a mission that matters.
We have set aside the following as a very special gift for any bamboo rod enthusiast who donates $1,500 directly to TU’s Coaster Brook Trout Initiative:
- The Two-Hearted Split Cane Tonkin Bamboo Fly Rod 5wt, 7’6″
- Extra Tip Section
- Cotton Brook Trout Sleeve (as shown)
- White Pine Case hand-crafted from reclaimed Michigan barn wood with custom carving
- Tax Write-off (this is a direct donation to Trout Unlimited – 401(c)3
Once your donation is made please contact: jahenryusa@gmail.com
About Ron Barch. Ron is widely recognized as a leading craftsman in the resurgence of split cane bamboo fly rods in North America and we are proud to have partnered with him, His name is virtually synonymous with the revival of this traditional art form. With a teaching background and more than 25 years of experience in fishing, rod building, and instruction, Ron brings deep knowledge and precision to his craft.
- Ron has built nearly 190 signature rods Michigan Blue Magazine.
- Founder of Alder Creek Publishing, Ron launched The Planing Form, a monthly technical newsletter for bamboo rod builders. It grew to over 600 subscribers across 15 countries before his retirement from the newsletter in 2015
- He served as the first instructor for the bamboo rod-building school at the Catskill Fly Fishing Museum, initiating what is now an annual rod-building event Michigan Blue Magazine+2wanigasrodcompany.com+2Trout Underground+2.
- Recipient of the A.P. Bellinger Award in 2011, honored by the Rod Makers Gallery at the Catskill Museum for his significant role in promoting and preserving the craft Michigan Blue Magazine.
