Sage is a brand with a long history of building legendary saltwater fly rods. However, their past few flagship salt series have largely disappointed. Sure, there were a few solid models, but most were too stiff, fast, and clunky for the average angler. When we had the opportunity to cast each rod in the new R8 Salt series, we were immediately impressed by Sage’s commitment to developing a salt-specific series that is enjoyable to cast for the average angler.
The eight is the go-to rod for many anglers searching for hard-fighting gamefish abroad and locally. Its versatility is unrivaled, and many see it as the perfect choice between too light and too heavy. But you don’t have to be a redfish or bonefish angler to reap the benefits. Whether you toss poppers to largemouth bass, Clousers to nasty pike, or indicator nymph for steelhead in Pulaski, you can count on the 8wt. Sold on the eight but unsure which rod is right for you? Read on because you will not want to miss this review!
Thomas & Thomas has long been known for building some of the finest saltwater fly rods in the world, and the Sextant series continues this tradition. Typical of T&T, the Sextant features high-end components and a build quality that few other production rods can match. While we appreciate the sharp looks, these are high-performance tools for the discerning destination flats angler, providing a nice balance between feel and power.
I recently spent a week fishing Turneffe Atoll, Belize in preparation for a hosted trip I have scheduled in April. I stayed at the Turneffe Flats lodge, which is located on the northeast (Caribbean) side of the atoll, and is situated in perfect location for easy fishing/diving access. “Flats,” as it’s nicknamed, is even stationed right along a home flat which would hold bonefish and at times permit and triggerfish during various times of the day. Most days, either early morning or when I returned to the lodge in the evening, I would see tailing fish feeding no more than 40 feet away. So, right off the bat the location seemed great. I was anxious to see what the rest of Turneffe Flats would show me.
Introduction If you’re around any fly shop long enough, you get to know the local gear junkies – the guys who really know (or want to know) everything about the latest and greatest tackle. These are the guys who hid paychecks from their wives to pick up the Hardy Zenith last spring. And when it comes to saltwater –...
