Every so often, a rod build idea hangs around in the back of your mind, patiently waiting for the right moment to take shape. For me, that idea was to incorporate an antler into a fly rod—a blend of my passion for fishing and my love for hunting. After years of thinking about it, I decided it was finally time to give it a try, and what better way than on a personal build?
The platform for this project was our Titanium 9'0" 5-weight fly rod, a staple in my arsenal. I wanted something functional, beautiful, and undeniably personal. I had just the piece to make it happen—a Blacktail deer shed I’d found a few years back while out hunting. The burr on this shed was perfect for the vision I had in mind.
With the shed in hand, I sawed off the base, carefully working to find the best center point before drilling it out to match the rod butt diameter. This part was trickier than expected—getting the angle just right so the burr would sit flush on the rod proved to be a challenge. In the end, it came together beautifully, but I made a mental note for next time: finding the perfect center and angle is key to getting that burr to sit square.
When the build was finally complete, I stood back and knew it deserved a name. “Peaks and Valleys” felt like the perfect fit—not only for the image of deer living in the shadow of rugged mountain peaks, but also for the valleys below where rivers wind through, carrying the fish we chase. It’s a name that ties together both sides of my outdoor passions—hunting and fishing—into one piece of gear.
The finished rod is more than just another addition to my lineup—it’s a reflection of the places I’ve been, the experiences I’ve had, and the balance between two pursuits that have shaped who I am. Every time I pick it up, I’m reminded of that hunt, the day I found the shed, and the countless days I’ve spent on the water. This rod isn’t just for casting—it’s for carrying a story.