An excellent Payne 98 fly rod, a 7' 2-piece, 2-tip model with a full flexing medium to slow action. The consigner rates this rod for a #4 though I thought it would fish a #3 nicely. This is a fine example of a Payne in original condition. All original wraps and 98% of the original bluing. The original varnish is solid and needs no fixing, however, there is considerable light bag imprint which adds a bit of roughness to the hand feel. Brown wraps with yellow edges, keeper 1 flat right. Small agate stripper and high arch guides. 4 3/4" slim cigar grip composed of 15 small corks which have been cleaned. Spanish cedar cap and ring seat. Stamped "E.F. Payne, Rod, E. F. Payne Rod Co, Makers" in cartouche with the reverse side stamped "Sold by Clapp and Treat Co. inc., Hartford". Original bag but no hang tag. Original tube but no felt in the cap. This rod also comes with papers of provenance which detail it having been acquired in 1927 for the former owner, a Winsted CT insurance agency owner. The rod passed to his heirs, who were the owners of the famous High Farms Labrador Retrievers lineage in New Hartford, CT. A great piece here for the true Payne aficionado in a highly desirable size.