Interesting stuff. I wonder whether the myriad of different bamboo species in Japan, each with different properties, gave more opportunity for producing light fishing tools (even if you were a peasant) as well?
I think they could have made better, but probably not lighter rods than those made from reed. John Dennys did not like it, and after describing the collection and storing of hazel wands has this to say;
So shalt thou have always in store the best,
And fittest Rods to serve thy turne aright;
For not the brittle cane, nor all the rest,
I like so well, though it be long and light,
Since that the Fish are frighted with the least
Aspect of any glittering thing, or white:
Nor doth it by one halfe so well incline,
As both the plyant rod to save the line.
'The Secrets of Angling' is a book of bait, rather than fly fishing, and a delightful read.
Chris.