Rare Hardy Fly-Fishing Collection Set To Make Waves At Auction

One of the largest and most important collections of Hardy fishing equipment ever to come to auction will go under the hammer at our Glasgow Galleries next month.

The Grant Mortimer Collection, assembled over a lifetime by the esteemed fly-fishing enthusiast, features more than 130 lots of rare rods, reels, flies, and other fly-fishing paraphernalia. Showcasing both modern and vintage pieces, the collection is expected to fetch tens of thousands of pounds at McTear’s standalone sale on 26th June. 

The late Grant Mortimer - who ran the highly respected Mortimers of Speyside shop for many years - had a long-standing relationship with Hardy, one of the most prestigious names in angling.  In recognition of his loyalty and passion, he was allocated the coveted serial number 004 on all new Hardy products, an honour made even more notable given that numbers 001 to 003 are reserved exclusively for the Royal Family. 

Over a period of 50 plus years Mortimer’s shop in Grantown-on-Spey garnered an enviable reputation - both at home and internationally - as the go to destination for the highest quality fly-fishing products, from rods and reels to tackle and bait, as well as equipment for game stalking, shooting, and other outdoor pursuits.  As secretary and treasurer of the angling association, Grant Mortimer was at the heart of Speyside fly-fishing, and understood the critical importance of visiting anglers, who came from all corners of the globe, to the local community.  

The auction reflects Mortimer’s eye for the finest fly-fishing equipment with standout lots including the James Hardy Celebration Fly Rod and Reel Set (2005, serial 004), estimated at £2,500 to £3,500, and the Pall Mall Centenary fly-fishing rod and reel set (serial 004), which is expected to fetch around £3,000.

A highlight of the sale is a remarkable selection of rare fly-fishing reels from pivotal periods in Hardy’s history. Among them is the Royal Set Commemorative Fly Reel Set, produced to celebrate the coronation of King Charles III in 2023, with an estimate of £2,000 to £3,000. Also featured is a set of three reproduction 1902 Wide Spool limited edition ‘Perfect’ reels, which could sell for £1,500. 

In addition to these premium items, the auction will offer more accessible lots, including Hardy reels starting from £50, ensuring there is something for collectors and enthusiasts at every level. 

All the rods and reels in the auction are unused, boxed and in pristine condition.

Speaking about his late friend, long time Speyside Ghillie, Simon Crozier, said: “Grant Mortimer was a hugely respected figure, not just in fly-fishing but across the wider Speyside community. Taking on the shop his father George founded over 50 years ago, he brought deep knowledge and experience from his many years fishing the Spey and made Mortimer’s a true hub for people as much as fishing. His passion, generosity, and expertise kept clients coming back year after year, and his presence in Grantown-on-Spey is deeply missed.”

Hardy’s illustrious 150-year legacy began in 1872 when William Hardy opened a gunsmith shop in Alnwick. Joined by his brother John James, the business soon evolved into producing high quality fishing tackle. Over the decades, Hardy became synonymous with innovation and craftsmanship, creating iconic products such as the Palakona split-cane rod and the enduringly popular ‘Perfect ‘fly reel. Today, the brand remains a global benchmark in premium angling equipment.

Commenting on the upcoming sale, our Managing Director Brian Clements said: “The Grant Mortimer Collection is truly exceptional, not only for its scale, but for its provenance and the deep connection it represents between a passionate collector and one of the world’s most revered fly-fishing brands. We are delighted to bring such an important collection to auction in Glasgow, which we fully expect will draw strong interest from collectors and enthusiasts around the world.”

The Grant Mortimer Collection will go under the hammer at our Glasgow galleries on Friday 26th June.

For a complimentary, no-obligation valuation, visit our Glasgow Galleries or contact a specialist on 0141 810 2880 or [email protected].