A Pair Of Aces: Dickerson's 8614 & 8615

It seems appropriate to profile the 8614 and 8615 models together. The similarities between their character and taper tend to overlap. Both the 8614 and 8615 were produced in relatively small numbers. Dickerson’s production ledger accounts for twenty-eight 8614s and twenty-one 8615s made, which includes any with Special or Guide designations. The scale of production would put both models in the uncommon/rare category, due to both the small number produced and the attrition associated with the passing of time. Both are superb all-around trout rods. If I were to recommend a Dickerson rod to cover every situation, these would be it. A close second would be the shorter 8014 or 8014 Guide.  This does not mean to imply that the 8614/8615 are better rods than the 8014/8014 Guide, but that if a person wanted one Dickerson to cover any trout fishing situation, the 8614/8615 have a very broad range of capabilities. One might think that Dickerson’s three piece 8’6” models could be equally as effective, if the objective were just versatility and reach that an 8’6” rod provides. However, the 8615/8614 are much more pleasant in felt swing weight, responsiveness, and accuracy, over Dickerson’s three-piece models of the same length.  However, it is only fair to mention that Dickerson’s 861711 was his top selling model with over 170 produced. During the first half of Dickerson’s career, early 30’s until WW2, three piece rods were much more popular. 

The first 8615 was made in 1939 for Earl Leitz, of Leitz Sport Shop, Sault Ste. Marie, MI. The last 8615 was made in 1957 for T.U. Founder, George Griffith. The first 8614 recorded in the ledger was in 1941 for Griswold’s Sport Shop in Detroit and the final 8614 was made in 1954 for Dickerson’s great customer, John S. Sweeney. 

The 8614 and 8615 generally weigh 4.7 to 4.9 oz. Weights sometimes overlap, meaning an 8615 can weigh less than an 8614, which can and usually does mean a slightly more powerful rod.  Dickerson’s application of ferrule size selection often resulted in unusual usage.  For example, he would often mount an undersized ferrule, removing more cane material than necessary on a rod that would usually call for a ferrule one size greater, for reasons unknown. This fact is discussed in more depth in the “Notes On Rods and Models” section of this site.  

https://dickersonrods.com/notes-on-rods-and-models-1

In my experience, most of the 8614s and 8615s are best with a six weight fly line. A friend who is a rodmaker and excellent caster, preferred my 8614 with a five weight line in test casting.  However, I feel that for actual on-stream fishing conditions, he would prefer it with a six weight if given the opportunity.  Of course, I am sure there are other examples that are slightly heavier or lighter than what I have seen.  I have not handled an 8615 Guide, but it would not surprise me if it were best with a seven weight.