Product Description
For Sale: A Glimpse of Angling History – The Ocean City Plymouth Fly Reel
Here's a rare opportunity to own a piece of fishing history: a well-preserved vintage Ocean City "Plymouth" fly fishing reel, proudly stamped "MADE IN U.S.A." This classic reel embodies the craftsmanship and innovation of an iconic American fishing tackle manufacturer, offering a tangible connection to the golden age of angling.
The Legacy of Ocean City Reels
The Ocean City Reel Company of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was a prolific and significant player in the American fishing tackle industry, opening its doors for business in 1922. For several decades, Ocean City was renowned for producing a wide range of fishing reels, from affordable utility models to more sophisticated big-game and fly reels.
Ocean City's strategic vision led them to acquire other notable companies, including Montague Rod & Reel Company in 1934 and the prestigious Edward vom Hofe Company in 1939. This expansion allowed them to diversify their offerings and solidify their position in the market. While many of their reels were mass-produced for accessibility, some models, like the "Orlando," "Balboa," and "Panama," were particularly well-made and are now sought after by collectors.
The "Plymouth" fly reel, like the one pictured, was an important part of Ocean City's fly reel lineup. It was introduced in 1937 and was known for its "Zephaloy" aluminum construction. The "Plymouth" was a popular model, evolving through various designs. The reel pictured, with its solid face and the clear "OCEAN CITY PLYMOUTH" engraving, likely dates to the 1950s or even up to the 1960s, as this design was largely unchanged from 1950 until at least 1970.
The company continued to produce reels until 1968, when it was eventually acquired by True Temper, marking the end of an era for the independent Ocean City brand.
About This Specific Reel: The Plymouth's Enduring Appeal
This particular Ocean City "Plymouth" reel is a testament to its robust construction. While it shows the expected signs of age and use – a charming patina on the aluminum finish, some wear around the edges, and minor rust on the screws – its clear markings and overall structural integrity speak to its durability. The central "OCEAN CITY PLYMOUTH MADE IN U.S.A." engraving is still sharp and legible, confirming its authenticity.
Despite its utilitarian roots, Ocean City reels, including the Plymouth, were often praised as "sturdy workhorses." They were built to last and provide reliable performance for the average angler. This reel likely features a simple, yet effective, drag system, characteristic of its era.
For the Collector or Angler:
Whether you're a seasoned collector looking to add a piece of American fishing history to your display, or an angler who appreciates the simplicity and charm of vintage tackle, this Ocean City "Plymouth" offers a unique opportunity. It represents a period when fishing gear was built to be dependable and accessible, and it carries the stories of countless days spent on the water.
This vintage Ocean City "Plymouth" reel is currently available for sale. Don't miss your chance to own a functional and historically significant piece of angling heritage.
