From the earliest days of transatlantic trade, British tackle has held a special place in American angling. Names like Hardy, Farlow’s, and Allcock have long been associated with craftsmanship, heritage, and a certain understated quality that continues to resonate today. It’s something we see daily—whether it’s a finely made split cane rod, a classic reel, or a perfectly dressed salmon fly, many of the pieces we handle find their way across the Atlantic.
A Longstanding Relationship
The US has always been one of our most important markets.
There’s a deep appreciation among American anglers for traditional British tackle—particularly items from what many consider the “golden age” of production. Whether it’s vintage Hardy reels, classic salmon flies, or beautifully built cane rods, these pieces represent more than just function—they’re part of angling history.
Over the years, we’ve shipped thousands of items to the US, building relationships with collectors, dealers, and fishermen alike. It’s a connection we value enormously.
Why We Paused—and Why We’re Back
Some of you will know that we made the decision to pause US shipping last year.
The reality was simple: increasing uncertainty around import duties and tariffs meant that customers were sometimes faced with unexpected charges once their items arrived in the US. That’s not the experience we want anyone to have when buying from Thomas Turner.
So, rather than continue with a system that created uncertainty, we stepped back to find a better solution.
We’re pleased to say—that solution is now in place.
Introducing PDDP (Postal Delivery Duties Paid)
We are now shipping to the United States again using PDDP — Postal Delivery Duties Paid.
In simple terms, this changes how duties and import costs are handled:
- You place your order as normal through our website
- We then calculate the exact shipping and customs charges for your item
- You receive a clear, fixed quote before anything is dispatched
- Once approved and paid, your order is shipped
This means no surprise charges on arrival—just complete clarity from the outset.
What This Means for You
The process is slightly different from before, but ultimately much more transparent.
Instead of paying everything upfront at checkout, there is now a short confirmation step after ordering. This allows us to calculate the correct duties based on the specific item—particularly important for the kind of unique and varied stock we handle.
For collectors and buyers, it means confidence:
- No unexpected fees
- No delays caused by unpaid customs charges
- No guesswork
Just a straightforward, fully informed purchase.
Business as Usual—Just Better
Everything else remains the same.
We continue to source and list exceptional antique, vintage, and modern classic tackle—much of it highly sought after in the US. From rare salmon flies and classic rods to fine reels and angling ephemera, our aim remains unchanged: to offer the very best pieces, backed by knowledge, provenance, and honest description.
And once your order is confirmed, it’s dispatched exactly as before—carefully packed, fully tracked, and handled with the attention these items deserve.
Looking Ahead
Reopening US shipping is an important step for us.
The connection between British tackle and American anglers is a strong one—and one we’re proud to be part of. With PDDP in place, we can continue that relationship with the level of clarity and service our customers expect.
If you’re based in the US and have been waiting to order again—welcome back.
