Generations of fishing heritage

From the origins of Zebco to handcrafted fly rods in Pagosa Springs, the story of Pagosa Rod & Tackle is rooted in family tradition, craftsmanship, and a lifelong passion for the water.

George Sumers, a New York investment banker and passionate outdoorsman, began a family tradition that would shape generations of anglers to come. His journey into fishing history began with the acquisition of the Zero Hour Bomb Company — a company that would later become Zebco Fishing and revolutionize modern fishing reels. George Sumers pictured here, circa 1911

Under family leadership, the company helped pioneer some of the first backlash-free spinning reels, changing recreational fishing forever and helping bring angling to a new generation of Americans.

Loretta 'Hickey' Sumers, pictured here, Miami Fishing Tournament, circa 1950

George Sumers passed the business to his son-in-law, Ralph Lafferty Sr., who continued the family’s dedication to innovation, craftsmanship, and the outdoors. From 1941 to 1945 Ralph was a captain in the 10th Mountain Infantry Division. His service took him to Italy where he was wounded in 1945; he was awarded two Purple Hearts and a Silver Star. Read more about Ralph Lafferty Sr here 

Ralph Sr. pictured here left, circa 1970 in Iceland 

Growing up surrounded by fishing craftsmanship and wilderness traditions, Rick Lafferty Jr. developed a lifelong connection to rivers, rod building, and fly fishing culture. 

Rick Lafferty Jr.  pictured here, 1969 in Key West, Fl with a 101.5 pound Tarpon

Eventually, that legacy found its home in Pagosa Springs, Colorado, where mountain rivers, handcrafted fly rods, and family tradition came together to form Pagosa Rod & Tackle. 

Rick Lafferty Jr pictured here, 1979, Trout fishing the Rangitaiki River, Bay of Plenty, New Zealand

Rick Lafferty Jr. eventually left the corporate world behind and pursued his true love of the outdoors! After handcrafting his cabin in Pagosa Springs, he began handcrafting rods. Every rod became more than equipment — it became a continuation of a family story. Handcrafted one at a time with meticulous attention to detail and designed for anglers who value both performance and heritage.

Rick Lafferty Jr, pictured here, Striper Fishing, Chesapeake Bay, circa 2020

Pagosa Rod and Tackle, owned and operated by Rick Lafferty Jr., started offering services from gear repair to outfitting others. Rick's hands have been building fly rods for decades. Today, he brings that experience to each one-of-a-kind rod. His meticulous attention to detail and deep understanding of what makes a great fishing experience informs every piece he creates 

Pagosa Rod and Tackle began offering rod-building workshops, inviting others to learn the art, tradition, and patience behind custom fly rod craftsmanship. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting your journey, this three-day course will provide you with the tools, skills, and confidence to create a fly fishing rod that's both functional and deeply personal.