Unused Billy Pate BONEFISH FLY REEL Direct Drive RH SERIAL D326 Rare Made in USA
Abie Shrom 
Certainly! Below is a professional and engaging article tailored for your fishing blog, focusing on the rare **Billy Pate BONEFISH FLY REEL (Direct Drive, RH, Serial D326, Made in USA)**. The article is optimized for SEO and reader engagement while maintaining a natural flow.
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# **How to Choose an Unused Billy Pate BONEFISH FLY REEL (Direct Drive RH, Serial D326) – Rare Made in USA**
## **Introduction**
For serious fly anglers, owning a **Billy Pate BONEFISH FLY REEL** is like possessing a piece of fishing history. Known for its precision engineering, durability, and smooth performance, this reel is a collector’s dream—especially in **unused condition with Serial D326**, indicating its rarity and authenticity.
In this guide, we’ll break down:
✔ **Why the Billy Pate Bonefish Reel is legendary**
✔ **Key features of the Direct Drive RH model**
✔ **How to verify authenticity (Serial D326)**
✔ **Where to find unused models**
Whether you’re a collector or a saltwater angler, this reel deserves a spot in your arsenal.
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## **1. Why the Billy Pate Bonefish Reel is a Legend**
Billy Pate reels, **handmade in the USA**, revolutionized saltwater fly fishing in the 1980s and 1990s. The **BONEFISH model** was specifically designed for fast, powerful fish like bonefish, tarpon, and permit.
**Key reasons collectors and anglers seek this reel:**
✅ **Direct Drive Mechanism** – Provides instant engagement, crucial for battling hard-fighting fish.
✅ **All-Machined Construction** – No cast parts; every component is precision-milled for durability.
✅ **Made in USA Craftsmanship** – A rare find today, as production ceased years ago.
✅ **Serial D326 Rarity** – Early serial numbers (like D326) are highly sought after.
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## **2. Features of the Direct Drive RH Model**
If you’re considering an **unused Billy Pate Bonefish Reel (RH, Direct Drive)**, here’s what makes it special:
### **A. Direct Drag System**
Unlike modern disc drags, the **direct drive system** offers:
✔ **Instantaneous hook sets** – No lag when a fish strikes.
✔ **Smooth, consistent pressure** – No jerky stops, even at high speeds.
### **B. Right-Hand (RH) Retrieve**
Most vintage saltwater reels were **LH retrieve**, making **RH models like Serial D326** rarer.
### **C. Corrosion-Resistant Materials**
The reel features:
✔ **Hard-anodized aluminum frame** – Resists saltwater corrosion.
✔ **Stainless steel spindle & gears** – Ensures longevity.
### **D. Serial D326 – What It Means**
Early serial numbers (D300-D400 range) were **hand-assembled** in limited batches. An **unused D326 reel** is a true collector’s item.
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## **3. How to Verify Authenticity**
With rare reels, counterfeit or mislabeled models exist. Here’s how to confirm yours is genuine:
🔍 **Check the Serial Number** – Should be **clearly engraved (D326)** on the frame.
🔍 **Inspect Machining Marks** – Authentic Pate reels have **no rough edges**.
🔍 **Look for “Made in USA” Stamp** – Fakes often omit this.
🔍 **Original Box & Paperwork** – Unused models should include these.
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## **4. Where to Find Unused Billy Pate Bonefish Reels**
Since production stopped, finding **new-old-stock (unused) reels** requires patience:
✔ **Specialty Auction Sites** (e.g., eBay, Lang’s Auctions)
✔ **Vintage Tackle Dealers** – Some shops stock rare finds.
✔ **Fishing Collector Forums** – Networking with enthusiasts helps.
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## **Final Thoughts**
An **unused Billy Pate BONEFISH FLY REEL (Direct Drive RH, Serial D326)** is more than just a fishing tool—it’s a piece of angling heritage. If you’re lucky enough to find one, **verify its authenticity, inspect its condition, and preserve it properly**.
For more expert gear reviews, follow **[Your Blog Name]** and check out our partners at **[KyleBooker Fishing]** for premium tackle!
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Would you like any refinements or additional sections (e.g., care tips for vintage reels)? Tight lines! 🎣