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Just below the new Spectrum Max, and replacing the much loved 4200 series, is the Sage Spectrum LT. Despite a confusing naming convention, this reel has some big shoes to fill. The 4200 was the lightweight workhorse of the Sage reel lineup and has always done well in our shootouts. Can the Spectrum LT live up to its predecessor’s legacy?

 

8-Weight Shootout Full Results

 

Weight

6.1 ounces. Just about right!

 

Drag

 

 

(Copied from Spectrum Max review, because it’s essentially identical) Let me start with the good news. The Sage has some really solid adjustability. Turn it halfway and you’ll get about 25% of the total drag. It also has a nice stop on the bottom with .14lbs. While we don’t love single turn drags, this one is actually not too bad as it doesn’t suffer the same drop off as some of the other reels. But, there’s one glaring problem: Max drag. It’s only got 3.3lbs of drag strength, and even though all of it is usable, it’s just not enough.

 

Drag Test Graphs

 

 

Sound

The LT is a little more muted and ‘trouty’ than the Max. It’s still not too bad.

 

Spool & Retrieval Rate

Like the Max, the LT is middle of the road. There’s really not a lot to talk about here. It picks up line slightly slower than the max at 8.75” per turn and offers plenty of backing capacity.

 

Looks & Ergonomics

Like the Max, the Spectrum LT is no stunner, but just a solid looking reel. Unfortunately, it lacks that higher quality feel of its big brother, but a solid reel no less. Where the Spectrum Max was clearly designed for bigger game, the Spectrum LT has a much smaller handle drag knob. While the drag knob still definitely works well, the handle left something to be desired.

 

Finish and durability

 

 

The Sage did really well in the drag and drop categories, but lost a point due to the fact that it’s got a ported reel seat, which is prone to bending.

 

Warranty

Lifetime to the original owner + $40.

 

Price: $349

 

Conclusion

We’ve tested several rods that balance out really well with sub-7 ounce reels (the H3 and Asquith to name a few) and one thing we were hoping to find is a lightweight reel that would pair well with these new, super light rods. Unfortunately, none of the really light reels broke into the top 10 – largely due to not having enough drag strength.

That said, if weight and balance are your number one priority, this is about as good as you can do.

 

 

Buy it with Free Shipping here.

 

Pros

  • Weight
  • Pretty good durability

 

Cons

  • Nowhere near enough drag