10 Vintage Fishing Gear Items That Are Still Valuable
If you’re into fishing or just love the charm of vintage gear, you might be surprised to hear that some of these tools have soared in value (as in hundreds or even thousands of dollars). From antique reels to handcrafted tackle boxes and lures, these tools are steeped in tradition and tell the stories of anglers’ past. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or stumbled upon a hidden gem while clearing out the attic, here are 10 vintage fishing gear items that are still worth big bucks — and why they’re such a catch.
1. Edward vom Hofe Rods and Reels
Edward vom Hofe gear is cherished for its intricate craftsmanship, historical significance, and the brand’s enduring reputation for upholding quality. Known for their precision engineering and elegant designs, some may say these rods are the Rolls-Royce of fishing gear. Case in point: This #722 Edward vom Hohe rod and reel combo that sold for $2,000 at auction in 2021.
2. Fishing Tackle Boxes
A well-preserved vintage tackle box complete with vintage lures, hooks, and other supplies can be a gold mine for collectors. These sets offer a glimpse into the past and often include rare or discontinued items. Complete sets in good condition can sell for hundreds or thousands of dollars, like this tackle box with supplies that sold for a whopping $3,500 at auction.
3. Fishing Rods
Vintage fishing rods, especially those paired with antique reels, are also highly collectible. Typically crafted from bamboo, fiberglass, or other high-quality materials, these rods are valued for their craftsmanship, durability, and historical appeal. Rare models can command top dollar, like this rod by H. L. Leonard that sold for over $2,000 on eBay in late 2024.
4. Wooden Fishing Lures
Hand-carved wooden lures from the early 20th century are highly cherished for their artistry, rarity, and labor-intensive craftsmanship. Brands like Heddon, Christiansen, and Creek Chub are considered especially rare and valuable; just take this single lure by Heddon that sold for almost $4,000 on eBay.
5. 4 Brothers Mohawk Fishing Reels
Produced in small batches by a family-run company, 4 Brothers Mohawk reels are praised for their rarity, quality, and unique history. Known for their distinctive design and craftsmanship, these reels have become a favorite among collectors. In 2022, a pair of these reels bearing the company’s trademark sold for $3,500 at auction.
6. Fishing Baskets
Woven fishing baskets, also known as creels, were once used by fishermen to hold their catch and bait. Today, they’re prized for their rustic charm and craftsmanship, especially those made from willow or other natural materials. Just take this woven creel (listed for nearly $300 on Etsy) that comes with a leather strap and pocket that looks straight out of Bilbo Baggins’ closet.
7. Fishing Decoys
Vintage fishing decoys, which are used to attract fish like muskies or pike, can also command top dollar among collectors thanks to their intricate designs and historical use. Hand-painted or carved decoys from well-known makers like Elmer Crowell can sell for several hundred or even thousands of dollars.
If you’ve got duck decoys stashed in the attic somewhere, they can also be extremely valuable, with prices ranging from several thousand dollars to over half a million!
8. Early Fly Reels
Early fly reels, especially those from acclaimed makers like Hardy, Allcock, or Pflueger, are prized for their precision and craftsmanship. Thanks to their historical appeal, collectors are willing to pay a premium for rare or well-preserved models, like this antique reel from Allcock & Co. that’s listed for close to $500 on eBay.
9. Fishing Nets
Vintage fishing nets, particularly those with wooden handles and hand-knotted nets, are often displayed as decorative pieces and are valued for their craftsmanship and historic appeal. Nets in good (and even used) condition can sell for surprising amounts, like this handmade trout net that’s listed for $325. Previous nets have also sold for several hundred on eBay.
10. Vintage Fishing Hats and Apparel
Vintage fishing hats, vests, and other apparel can also command top dollar among collectors thanks to their nostalgic charm and connection to angling history. Items like classic tweed fishing caps or leather fishing vests, especially those donning unique designs or intricate details can sell for hundreds of dollars, like this handmade linen fit that previously sold for $175.