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For more than 80 years the “Altenkirch” name has signified a proud and distinguished lineage
of four-generations of fishermen, custom rod builders and outfitters. Since 1930, the Altenkirchs
have been pioneers in the sport fishing industry and contributed with innovative new
products that have revolutionized the sport fishing world. Some innovations date back to the
1930s—The first “drop-back” fighting chair was designed and built by Mickey Altenkirch (2nd generation),
to prevent dangerous back and neck injuries. Then, came the first “swivel” rod holder and
detachable rod butt which could detach from the either top or bottom, before the “stora-butt” was conceived.
In the 30s, when rods were made from bamboo, Mickey designed the first “high-bridge” guides
to improve the deficiency of the guides with bamboo. He later incorporated the use of ceramics
in those same guides. Mickey also made brass outrigger bases for bamboo poles and always
made his own reel seats in sizes from 3/4” to 1 5⁄8”. Today, Hank (3rd generation), loves to show
anyone who’s interested, the only stainless-steel reel seat in the world—available only on an
Altenkirch rod. For the sport fisherman looking for uncompressed performance and reliability-
Hank has designed a curved butt that perfectly mates to his reel seat milled from a solid billet
of aluminum. How the butt is milled and shaped remains an Altenkirch trade secret today.
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