For years our Sage/Redington/RIO sales representative George Cook has provided the following guides to us in our “product catalog binder”. In 2021 the digital versions (thanks to covid no doubt) are now available. I thought I would share the rod, reel, line matches per George Cook. This document is extensive and has evolved over the years. Rod models, actions, and line tapers/designs have changed thus recommendations have shifted as well. I will follow up with another post specifically related to the lines themselves. Enjoy!
SAGE’s Spey and Switch X rods let you experience the remarkable benefits of Konnetic HD Technology. Efficient, effective load carry enhances the casting stroke. Unrivaled recovery optimizes the line speed equation which produces consistent, smooth, long, and most importantly straight casts.
X 5120-4 12’ 4pc 5wt: The awaited 5wt Spey X has arrived. The summer run Steelhead enthusiast now has a unique combination of light weight in hand coupled with line speed. From Northern California to the Kenai Peninsula small ball with power is now available. Scandi dry line work along with sink tip probing via Skagit heads will make this a fall Steelhead and Big Alaskan Rainbow classic.
• Line Match: Skagit Max Launch 425, Skagit Max Power 450, RIO Scandi 360
• Sink Tip Use: 15’ 109 Grain type 3, 6, & 8, T-8/T-11/T-14 in 10, 12.5.’ Spey and Scandi Light VersiLeader 10’ all types
• M.O.W. Match: Light/T-8, Medium/T-11
• Reel Match: Sage Spey Reel 6/7/8, Spectrum Max 7/8, Spectrum LT 7/8
X 6120-4 12’ 4pc 6wt: Ideally suited for a multitude of steelhead, light salmon and big trout duty. A really good choice for the brace rod below the #8 that everyone owns. A Deschutes favorite along with a Tierra del Fuego small rod.
• Line Match: RIO Scandi 390, Skagit Max Launch 450, Skagit Max Game Changer 4D 450, Skagit Max Power 475, Short Head Spey 6/7
• Sink Tip Use: 15’ 129 grain tips in type 3, 6 and 8. T-8/T-11 10’ and 12.5’, Spey and Scandi Light Scandi-VersiLeader 10’ all types
• M.O.W. Match: Light/T-8, Medium/T-11
• Reel Match: Sage Spey Reel 6/7/8, Spectrum Max 7/8, Spectrum LT 7/8, Tibor Signature 7/8
X 6139-4 13’9” 4pc 6wt: The ultimate Big Water, Summer/Fall Steelhead rod is here. From the Rogue to Idaho’s Clearwater this shall become the kings crown of 6wt Spey. Naknek, Kvichak, and Middle Kenai big Rainbow chasers will most certainly find this rod to their liking both Spring and Fall.
• Line Match: Skagit Max Launch 450, Skagit Max Game Changer 4D 475, RIO Scandi 435, InTouch Mid Head Spey 6/7, InTouch Short Head Spey 6/7
• Sink Tip Use: 15’ 129 grain tips in type 3, 6 and 8. T-8/T-11 10’ and 12.5’, Spey and Scandi Light Scandi-VersiLeader 10’ all types
• M.O.W. Match: Light/T-8, Medium/T-11
• Reel Match: Sage Spey Reel 6/7/8, Spectrum LT 9/10
X 7120-4 12’ 4pc 7wt: Kick ass all-purpose #7 Weight for the Pacific Rim and beyond. Everything from Steelhead, Giant Rainbows to Tierra del Fuego browns are all on the menu for this stellar performer.
• Line Match: RIO Scandi 510, Skagit Max Launch 550, Skagit Max Game Changer 550, Skagit Max Power 575, Short Head Spey 7/8
• Sink Tip Use: 15’ 129 and 150 grain in type 3, 6 and 8. T-8/T-11/T-14 in 10, 12.5.’ Spey and Scandi Light VersiLeader 10’ all types
• M.O.W. Match: Light/T-8, Medium/T-11, Heavy/T-14
• Reel Match: Sage Spey Reel 6/7/8, Spectrum LT 9/10, Spectrum Max 9/10
X 7130-4 13’ 4pc 7wt: The Steelheader’s Choice, be it Oregon or Washington here’s your stick. Travel with Confidence knowing that you’re sitting in the “Just Right” Length and Line weight for both winter and summer endeavors. At 13’ you’ll cast distance with ease yet in the canopy it’ll still work flawlessly. Step on in, the water’s ready… So Are You!
• Line Match: Skagit Max Launch 550, Skagit Max Game Changer 550 Scandi 510, Short Head Spey 7/8, Mid Head Spey 7/8
• Sink Tip Use: 15’ 129 and 150 grain in type 3, 6 and 8. T-8/T-11/T-14 in 10, 12.5.’ Spey and Scandi Light Versi-Leader 10’ all types
• M.O.W. Match: Light/T-8, Medium/T-11, Heavy/T-14
• Reel Match: Sage Spey Reel 6/7/8, Spectrum LT 9/10, Spectrum Max 9/10, Tibor Signature 9/10
X 7140-4 14’ 4pc 7wt: The casters delight 7wt has arrived. Given the popularity of the 7wt spey rod throughout the Pacific Rim it is only fitting to bring this long-anticipated rod to the steelhead theater. No longer will you wonder if you could have just reached another 10’. Dial the distance and cast…summer runs beware.
• Line Match: Skagit Max Launch 550, Skagit Max Game Changer 550, Scandi 510, Mid Head Spey 7/8, Long Head Spey 7/8
• Sink Tip Use: 15’ 129 and 150 grain in type 3, 6 and 8. T-8/T-11/T-14 in 10, 12.5.’ Spey and Scandi Light Versi-Leader 10’ all types
• M.O.W. Match: Light/T-8, Medium/T-11, Heavy/T-14
• Reel Match: Sage Spey Reel 7/8/9, Spectrum LT 9/10, Tibor Signature 9/10
X 8120-4 12’ 4pc 8wt: Super tactical spey rod. From Kings in Alaska to winter runs on the Sol Duc to tight casting quarters on the North Umpqua. This is an ideal 2nd rod for winter spey enthusiasts. Don’t be fooled by the 12’ length, long casts come surprisingly easy with minimal effort.
• Line Match: RIO Scandi 510, Skagit Max Launch 600, Skagit Max Game Changer 600, Skagit Max Power 625, Short Head Spey 8/9
• Sink Tip Match: 15’ 150 grain type 3, 6 and 8. T-11/T-14 10’,12.5’ & 15’. T-17 in 11’, 13’ & 15’ lengths. Spey and Scandi Versi-Leader 10’ all types.
• M.O.W. Match: Medium/T-11, Heavy/T-14, Extra Heavy/T-17
• Reel Match: Spectrum Max 9/10, Sage Spey Reel 6/7/8, Spectrum LT 9/10
X 8130-4 13’ 4pc 8wt: From the Umpqua to the Babine this is an ideal all around spey rod as we’ve seen in years. No stone shall be unturned as you take the river step by step and ultimately by storm. In addition to steelhead this will prove a versatile 8wt from TDF to Western Alaska (Kings).
• Line Match: Skagit Max Launch 600, Skagit Max Game Changer 600, Scandi 520, Short Head Spey 8/9, Mid Head Spey 8/9
• Sink Tip Use: 15’ 150 grain type 3, 6 and 8. T-14 in 10’, 12.5’& 15’ lengths T-17 in 11’ & 13’ lengths. Spey Versi-Leader 10’ all types.
• M.O.W. Match: Medium/T-11, Heavy/T-14, Extra Heavy/T-17
• Reel Match: Sage Spey Reel 7/8/9, Tibor Signature 9-10, Spectrum Max 9/10, Spectrum LT 9/10
X 8140-4 14’ 4pc 8wt: Big water, Big time Performer. Be it British Columbia in the Fall, various Olympic Peninsula Rivers in the Winter, Oregon’s Nehalem and Clackamas come March and April, This is the stick you want. This is Geo’s go to spey rod in Western Alaska nowadays. Never before has a rod this light weight, and with such stunning capabilities been available. Uncharted ground will soon turn to uncharted casts as you cover runs like never before.
• Line Match: Skagit Max Launch 600, Skagit Max Game Changer 600, Scandi 520, Mid head Spey 8/9, Long Head Spey 8/9
• Sink Tip Use: 15’ 150 grain type 3, 6 and 8. T-14 in 10’, 12.5’& 15’ lengths T-17 in 11’, 13’ & 15’ lengths. Spey Versi-Leader 10’ all types.
• M.O.W. Match: Medium/T-11, Heavy/T-14, Extra Heavy/T-17
• Reel Match: Tibor Signature 9/10, Spectrum Max 9/10, Tibor Riptide, Sage Spey Reel 7/8/9,
X 9120-4 12’ 4pc 9wt: King Salmon are nervous everywhere. From Bristol Bay to Chile the King Tamer is fixing to travel, Divide and conquer. Not since 1990 going back many years has this caliber/length of Spey rod been available. Ideally suited for king salmon but equally at home in wind swept TDF this rod is soon to be the traveling angler’s close companion.
• Line Match: Skagit Max Launch 650, Skagit Max Game Changer 650, Skagit Max Power 675, Scandi 610
• Sink Tip Use: 15’ 150 & 166 grain type 3, 6 and 8. T-11/T-14 in 10’ 12.5’ and 15’ lengths. T-17 in 11’, 13’ & 15’. Spey Versi-Leader 10’ all types.
• M.O.W Match: Medium/T-11, Heavy/T-14, Extra Heavy/T-17
• Reel Match: Spectrum Max 9/10, Sage Spey Reel 7/8/9, Spectrum LT 9/10
X 9140-4 14’ 4pc 9wt: The ideal Big winter steelhead, King Salmon combo rod has arrived (for those traveling to the Kola Peninsula this is your stick). The Clackamas to the Skagit, the Kispiox to the Kola, this is the rod to “get-er-done”.
• Line Match: Skagit Max Launch 700, Skagit Max Game Changer 700, RIO Scandi 640, RIO Mid Head Spey 9/10, Long Head Spey 9/10
• Sink Tip Use: 15’ 150 & 166 grain type 3, 6 and 8. T-11/T-14 in 10’ 12.5’ and 15’ lengths. T-17 in 11’, 13’ & 15’. Spey Versi-Leader 10’ all types.
• M.O.W Match: Medium/T-11, Heavy/T-14, Extra Heavy/T-17
• Reel Match: Spectrum Max 9/10, Sage Spey Reel 7/8/9
X 10150-4 15’ 4pc 10wt: A focused specialty rod for big rivers and big fish like B.C.’s Thompson River, B.C. & Alaskan Kings, Norwegian and Kola Peninsula Atlantic Salmon.
• Line Match: Skagit Max Launch 750, Scandi 640, In Touch Long Head Spey 10/11
• Sink Tip Use: 15’ 150, & 166 grain type 3, 6 and 8. T-14/T-17 in 12.5’, 13’ and 15’. Spey Versi-Leader 10’ all types.
• M.O.W. Match: Heavy/T-14, Extra Heavy/T-17
• Reel Match: Tibor Gulfstream, Spectrum Max 11/12, Tibor Signature 11/12S
Blistering line speed coupled with reserve power marks this newest generation of performance spey rods. When the chips are on the table and conditions and opportunity demand performance wade on in knowing that you are armed with the highest performing spey rod of all time!
Igniter Spey Rods
Igniter 6126-4 12’6” 4-piece 6wt. A Super Charged classic Northwest 6 wt Spey Rod. When the wind blows hard, Wade out Proud and Yell out Loud, “Who Cares” because this rod will cut right through it.
• Line Match: RIO Scandi 400, Skagit Max Launch 475, Skagit Max Game Changer 4D 450, Short Spey Head 6/7
• Sink Tip Use: 15’ 129gr type 3, 6, & 8. T-8/T-11 in 10’, 12.5’. 10’ and 12’ Spey Versi-Leaders All Types.
• M.O.W. Match: Light/T-8, Medium/T-11.
• Reel Match: Sage Spey Reel 6/7/8, Spectrum Max 7/8, Spectrum LT 7/8
Igniter 7126-4 12’6” 4-piece 7wt. The #1 requested line weight that generates insane, blistering line speed. Destined to become a true favorite of the Pacific Rim Spey Clan. Steelhead anywhere, everywhere. Tierra del Fuego and Big Alaska Rainbows.
• Line Match: Skagit Max Launch 550, Skagit Max Game Changer 4D 525, RIO Scandi 510, Short Head Spey 7/8
• Sink Tip Use: 15’ 150 grain type 3, 6 and 8. T-8/T-11/T-14 in 10’, 12.5’ and 15’. 10’ and 12’ Spey Versi-Leaders All Types.
• M.O.W. Match: Light/T-8, Medium/T-11 & Heavy/T-14
• Reel Match: Sage Spey Reel 6/7/8, Spectrum Max 9/10, 9/10, Spectrum LT 9/10
Igniter 8136-4 13’6” 4-piece 8wt. An enduring 8wt Spey Rod. Might be the single best rod for Tierra del Fuego, and equally at home on the Kispiox in October, The Olympic Peninsula come February, and the Umpqua all winter long. A true sleeper King Salmon stick!
• Line Match: Skagit Max Launch 600, Skagit Max Game Changer 4D 600, RIO Scandi 520, Mid Head Spey 8/9
• Sink Tip Use: 15’ 150 grain type 3, 6, and 8. T-11/T14 in 10’, 12.5’, and 15’. T-17 in 11’ 13’ 15’, 10’ and 12’ Spey Versi-Leaders all types.
• M.O.W. Match: Medium/T-11, & Heavy/T-14, and even Extra Heavy/T-17
• Reel Match: Spectrum Max 9/10, Sage Spey Reel 7/8/9, Spectrum LT 9/10
Igniter 9140-4 14’ 4-piece 9wt. In the gun world, they call this an Ultra Mag. So, welcome the new magnum 9 weight spey. Alaska Kings, Alta Atlantics, B.C. and big Winter Runs everywhere. The Method 9wt spey, all the power without weight or fatigue.
• Line Match: Skagit Max Launch 725, Skagit Max Game Changer 4D 725, In Touch Long Head Spey 9/10, RIO Scandi 640
• Sink Tip Use: 15’ 150 & 166 grain type 3, 6 and 8. T-14/T-17/T-20 in 10’, 12.5’, 13’ and 15’ lengths. Spey Versi-Leaders 12’ All Types.
• M.O.W. Match: Heavy/T-14, Extra heavy/T-17
• Reel Match: Spectrum Max 9/10, Sage Spey Reel 7/8/9
NEW Igniter 9140-6 14’ 6-piece 9wt. In the gun world, they call this an Ultra Mag. So, welcome the new magnum 9 weight spey. Alaska Kings, Alta Atlantics, B.C. and big Winter Runs everywhere. The Method 9wt spey, all the power without weight or fatigue.
• Line Match: Skagit Max Launch 750, Skagit Max Game Changer 4D 725, In Touch Long Head Spey 9/10, RIO Scandi 640
• Sink Tip Use: 15’ 150 & 166 grain type 3, 6 and 8. T-14/T-17/T-20 in 10’, 12.5’, 13’ and 15’ lengths. Spey Versi-Leaders 12’ All Types.
• M.O.W. Match: Heavy/T-14, Extra heavy/T-17
• Reel Match: Spectrum Max 9/10, Sage Spey Reel 7/8/9
Igniter 10150-4 15’ 4-piece 10wt. How far do you want to cast? Whatever the MAX job that awaits your angling adventure, this is the tool to bring to the party! The largest rivers, the biggest challenges from the World’s great Anadromous game fish.
• Line Match: Skagit Max Launch 750, In Touch Long Head Spey 10/11
• Sink Tip Use: 15’ 166 or 190 grain type 3, 6 and 8. T-14, T-17, T-20 in 13’, 15’ and 17’
• M.O.W. Match: Heavy/T-14, Extra heavy/T-17
• Reel Match: Spectrum Max 11/12, Tibor Signature 11/12S Tibor Gulfstream
NEW for 2021 Igniter Switch Rods
The NEW Igniter Switch feature 6-9wt Switch rods in the Classic Baby Spey 11’9” length. These ultra-light-weight powerful tools cast like 13’ Spey Rods but feel like a 10’ single-handed rod. Sage’s Proprietary Konnetic HD Technology, has once again raised the bar in today’s switch rod world.
NEW IGNITER 6119-4 11’9” 4 piece 6wt. Small but Powerful. Pacific Rim Steelhead, Alaskan Rainbows, & Fall Browns swingin’ stick, lake and beach too, small steelhead use for such haunts as the Rogue, Grande Ronde and John Day.
• Line Match: Skagit Max Power 450, Max Launch 425, RIO Scandi 390, Switch Chucker #7
• Sink Tip Use: 15’129 Type 3, 6 & 8. T-8/T-11 in 10’ & 12.5’. 10’ Spey VersiLeaders All Types.
• M.O.W. Match: T-8/Light, T-11/Medium
• Reel Match: Spectrum LT 7/8, Spectrum 7/8
NEW IGNITER 7119-4 11’9” 4 piece 7wt. As with most Switch rods, the #7 represents the 30.06 of Switch. From Alaska Rainbows to Oregon Coastal Steelhead to Tierra Del Fuego Sea-Run Brows, the 7 plays big. Not overkill for Trout but big enough for Anadromous Critters, here is your all-purpose player.
• Line Match: Skagit Max Power 500, Skagit Max Launch 475, RIO Scandi 435, Rio Switch Chucker #7
• Sink Tip Use: 15’ 129 Type 3, 6 & 8. T-8/T-11/T-14 in 10’ & 12.5’. 10’ Spey VersiLeaders All Types.
• M.O.W. Match: T-8/Light,T-11/Medium & T-14/Heavy
• Reel Match: Spectrum LT 7/8, Spectrum 7/8
NEW IGNITER 8119-4 11’9” 4 piece 8wt. Talk about power in a light package. Focused Anadromous Switch rod, steelhead anywhere, smaller Atlantic salmon venues, Sea-Run Browns, Coastal Steelhead. You will be shocked at the distances this rod will produce.
• Line Match: Skagit Max Power 550, RIO Scandi 480, Skagit Max Launch 525, Skagit Max Game Changer 525, RIO Switch Chucker #8, Rio Switch 8/9, Outbound Coldwater WF-9
• Sink Tip Use: 15’ 129 & 150 grain Type 3, 6 & 8. T-8/T-11/T-14 in 10’, 11’ & 12.5’, 10’ Spey VersiLeaders All Types.
• M.O.W. Match: T-8/Light,T-11/Medium & T-14/Heavy
• Reel Match: Sage Spey Reel 6/7/8 Spectrum Max 7/8, Spectrum LT 7/8
NEW IGNITER 9119-4 11’9” 4 piece 9wt. WOW, it is finally here the “Chrome Crowbar!” In the rifle world they call this a short Magnum, this rod is truly such. B.C. and Alaska Kings, Strategically used in some of the bigger steelhead haunts as well. California, and Jersey Shore Striper Boys may have a pet rod here too.
• Line Match: Skagit Max Power 600, Skagit Max Launch 575, RIO Switch Chucker #9, Skagit Max Game Changer 575
• Sink Tip Use: 15’ 150 grain Type 3, 6, & 8. T-11/T-14/T17 in 10’ and 12.5’. 10’ Spey Versileaders all types.
• M.O.W Match: T-11/Medium, T-14/Heavy, T-17/Ext Heavy
• Reel Match: Sage Spey Reel 6/7/8 Spectrum Max 7/8, Spectrum LT 7/8
SAGE Trout Spey 2021
1109-4 10’9” 4pc 1wt: Historically, 2wt Trout Spey was the lightest available but Little guy Little has arrived. The smallest of the small Trout Spey rods is now available and ready for action. Be it East or West baby spey is here to stay. Fly selection and use will dictate the boundaries for this light tackle specialty rod. Swinging soft hackles is assured but classic streamer patterns along with carefully designed micro intruders will see action as well.
• Line Match: RIO Trout Spey #1 (Scandi Style Line at 190gr), Skagit Trout Spey 200gr
• Sink Tips: 10’ conventional (Replacement) Tips, Floating, Intermediate, Type 3 & 6 in 55 grains, Scandi Light Versi-Leaders 7’ all types.
• Reel Match: Sage Trout Spey Reel 1/2/3
2109-4 10’ 9” 4pc 2wt: Today the 2wt Trout Spey rod represents ultralight versatility based on specialized lines coupled with well thought out fly patterns. The angler’s ability to harness fun and effectiveness is found here.
• Line Match: Skagit Trout Spey Integrated 225gr, (Head 250gr), Trout Spey #2 (Scandi) 230gr
• Sink Tips: 10’ Floating, Intermediate, Type 3&6 in 55 grains, Scandi Light Versi-Leaders 7’ all types.
• MOW Match: MOW Light through 10’ sink tip.
• Reel Match: Sage Spey Reel 1/2/3
3103-4 10’ 3” 4pc 3wt AND the 3110-4 11’ 4pc 3wt: The 3wt Trout Spey represents the step right in and get after it Trout Spey rod. For the spey caster the transition from conventional spey rods is found with ease here. While there are two 3wts listed here, it should be noted that the shorter of the two (3103-4) is targeted toward smaller water, and a versatile offering, the 3110-4 sits in the historical length of a 3wt Trout Spey. Destined to become a favorite of the trout chasing crowd, be it east, west, north (Alaska Trout, Dollies, and Grayling) and south (South American and New Zealand trout). Sweet swinging is on the way.
• Line Match: Skagit Trout Spey #3 275, Trout Spey #3 (Scandi) 265gr
• Sink Tips: Scandi Light VersiLeaders 7’ all types.
• MOW Match: MOW Light through 10’ Sink Tip, MOW Medium through 10’ Sink Tip
• Reel Match: Sage Trout Spey 3/4/5
4113-4 11’ 3” 4pc 4wt: The biggest of the SAGE Trout Spey offering, the 4113-4 is also the Work Horse of the Trout Spey Kingdom. This rod will see a myriad of angling opportunities throughout the west along with Alaska adventures as well as favorite haunts of both South America and New Zealand. The beauty of a 4wt Trout Spey is your fly selection, and use expands greatly along with casting expectations (distance). Northern California and Southern Oregon ½ Pounders will indeed find themselves posing for photos as well. Come cast this gem and see how little plays BIG.
• Line Match: Skagit Max Power 350, Trout Spey #4 (Scandi) 305gr, Skagit Trout Spey (integrated) 325gr, Skagit Trout Spey (HEAD) 350gr
• Sink Tips: 10’ Spey Versi-Leaders, all type (Scandi 300). 15’ 109 grain sinktips in type 3, 6 & 8. (Skagit Max Power 350)
• MOW Match: Light/T-8, Medium/T-11
• Reel Match: Sage Trout Spey 3/4/5, Spectrum LT 7/8
Sage Pulse Spey/Switch Rods for 2021
George Cook/Erik Johnson
6126-4 Pulse 12’6” 6wt 4pc: Ideally suited for a multitude of steelhead, light salmon and big trout duty. A really good choice for the brace rod below the #8 that everyone owns. A Deschutes favorite along with a Western Alaska small rod.
• Line Match: RIO Scandi 390, Skagit Max Launch 425, Skagit Max Game Changer 4D 450, Skagit Max Power 450, Short Head Spey 6/7
• Sink Tip Use: 15’ 129 grain tips in type 3, 6 and 8. T-8/T-11 from 10’ and 12.5’, Spey Versi-Leader 10’ and 12’ all types
• M.O.W. Match: Light/T-8, Medium/T-11
• Reel Match: Sage Spey Reel 6/7/8, Spectrum 7/8
7130-4 Pulse 13’ 7wt 4pc: Pulse…Feel your heartbeat when you first step into the morning mist, knowing performance and value have met on the curve and you are ready to be on the water. Step into the summer of Spey with confidence with the preferred spey rod in the legendary 7wt. Whether you choose the Power of the Skagit Line or the Grace of the Scandi you are in business with the new Pulse Series.
• Line Match: Skagit Max Launch 525, Skagit Max Game Changer 4D 525, RIO Scandi 480, Short Head Spey 7/8
• Sink Tips: 15’ 129 and 150gr Type 3,6, & 8 Density’s, T-8/T-11/T-14 in 10’ and 12.5’. 10 and 12’ Spey Versi-Leaders, all Types.
• MOW Match: Light/T-8, Medium/T-11, Heavy/T-14
• Reel Match: Spectrum LT 9/10, Spectrum 9/10, Sage Spey Reel 6/7/8
8136-4 Pulse 13’6” 8wt 4pc: Value and Performance play big here. The winter steelhead angler has an ideal stick here. In Washington State along with BC this is an all-purpose spey rod. Go ahead, Step in and start Hucking
• Line Match: Skagit Max Launch 575, Skagit Max Game Changer 575, RIO Scandi 520, Short Head Spey 8/9, In Touch Mid Head Spey 8/9
• Sink Tip: 15’ 150gr Type 3,6, & 8 Density’s, T-11/T-14 in 10, 12.5, 13’, and 15’ lengths
• MOW Match: Medium/T-11, Heavy/T-14, Extra Heavy/T-17
• Reel Match: Spectrum LT 9/10, Spectrum 9/10, Sage Spey Reel 7/8/9
Sage Pulse Switch Rods
3110-4 Pulse 11’ 3 wt 4pc: Trout Spey arrives in a price point version geared for the angler looking to try out this relatively new angling format. In the Trout Spey Theater the 3wt becomes the Omni-present tool. With a host of lines available, versatility abounds with this Trout Spey specialty stick.
• Line Match: Trout Spey #3 (Scandi) 265, Skagit Trout Spey #3 275
• Sink Tips: Scandi Light Versi-Leaders 7’ all types. 10’ conventional sink tips all types 55gr
• MOW Match: MOW Light through 10’ Sink Tip, MOW Medium through 10’ Sink Tip
• Reel Match: Sage Trout Spey Reel 3/4/5, Spectrum LT 7/8, Spectrum 7/8
7114-4 Pulse 11’4” 7wt 4pc: It’s been said that the 7wt switch rod is the 30-06 of switch. To be sure this is a versatile statement as well as a versatile fact. Steelhead, Bruiser Rainbows, Sea Run dollies, and even Silvers all make the menu here. Whether you are using an indicator or swinging your favorite run, this is an ideal switch rod to have.
• Line Match: Skagit Max Power 475, RIO Switch Chucker #7, RIO Scandi 435, In Touch Switch 7/8
• Sink Tip: 15’ 129gr Type 3, 6, & 8. T-8/T-11 in 10’, 12.5’. 10’ Spey Versi-leaders all types
• MOW Match: Light/T-8, Medium/T-11
• Reel Match: Spectrum LT 7/8, Spectrum 7/8
8114-4 Pulse 11’4” 8wt 4pc: In the realm of switch rods the 8wt kicks over into a true anadromous switch rod. Here you have a focused steelhead stick that will battle the smaller salmon with ease be it Silvers, and Chums. Rigged up with a Switch Chucker #8 the indicator enthusiast can throw everything short of a hot air balloon.
• Line Match: Skagit Max Power 525, Skagit Max Game Changer 4D 500, Switch Chucker #8, RIO Scandi 450, In Touch Switch 8/9
• Sink Tip: 15’ 129gr Type 3, 6, & 8. T-8/T-11/T-14 in 10’ and 12.5’. 10’ Spey VersiLeaders, all types.
• MOW Match: Light/T-8, Medium/T-14, Heavy/T-17
• Reel Match: Spectrum LT 7/8, Spectrum 7/8, Sage Spey Reel 6/7/9
Comprehensive Guide to Sage Sonic Spey Rods
Spey/Two-Handed Rods 2021
George Cook/Erik Johnson
As you read about the various offerings of Sage Spey Rods, along with line and reel match ups, please take note that the different line match variations do have specific usage. Line choice will be dictated by such factors as seasonality, method, casting style, water temperature and fly type. In other words, an ideal line for the Deschutes on Labor Day is a different animal than the ideal line for the Hoh/Queets/Sol Duc in early March.
• RIO Scandi: A
• Pure Northwest Steelhead Use Scandi Taper. *See Scandi/ology 2.0 for details*
• Skagit Max Line: The focused tool for Sink-tip use with the ability for pure full floating fly line adaptation. *See “Skagit/ology” for more details.*
• PowerSpey Line: The summer/fall floating line of the traditional long line caster.
• Short Head Spey: Lovely, Modern day compact mid-belly that excels on 12’ to 13’6” Rods.
7136-4 Sonic – 13’6’’ 4 piece 7wt. The perfect summer run rod that can see duty for big Alaskan rainbows and TDF Sea Run Browns as well. Grande Ronde, Deschutes, Rogue or Umpqua this is the ideal year round rod in Oregon. This is a rod every spey enthusiasts everywhere-should own.
• Line Match: RIO Scandi 480, Skagit Max Launch 525, Short Head Spey 7/8
• Sink Tip Use: 15’ 150 grain in type 3, 6 and 8. T-8/T-11/T-14 in 10’, 12.5.’ Spey VersiLeader 10.’
• M.O.W. Match: Light/T-8, Medium/T-11, Heavy/T-14
• Reel Match: Spectrum LT 9/10, Sage Spey 6/7/8, Spectrum 9/10
8136-4 Sonic 13’6” 4 piece 8wt. The perennial steelhead spey rod has arrived. Be it spring or fall, summer or winter this rod will prove hard to beat anywhere in the steelhead theatre. Whether it’s your first Northwest spey rod or another arrow in the quiver, this light, smooth, powerful tool excels without fatigue places this rod atop the list of stellar Sage steelhead spey rods.
• Line Match: Skagit Max Launch 575, RIO Scandi 520, Short Head Spey 8/9, Mid-Head Spey 8/9
• Sink Tip Match: 15’ 150 grain type 3, 6 and 8. T-14 in 10’, 12.5’& 13’ lengths T-17 in 10’ & 12.5’ lengths. Spey VersiLeader 10’all types.
• M.O.W. Match: Medium/T-11, Heavy/T-14, Extra Heavy/T-17
• Reel Match: Spectrum Max 9/10, Sage Spey Reel 7/8/9, Spectrum LT 9/10 Spectrum 9/10,
9140-4 Sonic 14’ 4 piece 9wt. The ideal Big winter steelhead, King Salmon combo rod has arrived (for those traveling to the Kola Peninsula this is your stick). The Clackamas to the Skagit, the Kispiox to the Kola, this is the rod to “get-er-done”.
• Line Match: Skagit Max Launch 675, RIO Scandi 640, Short Head Spey 9/10, Mid-Head Spey 9/10, Long Head Spey 9/10
• Sink Tip Use: 15’ 150 & 166 grain type 3, 6 and 8. T-11/T-14 in 10’ 12.5’ and 15’ lengths. T-17 in 11’, 13’ & 15’. Spey VersiLeader 12’ all types.
• M.O.W Match: Medium/T-11, Heavy/T-14, Extra Heavy/T-17
• Reel Match: Sage Spey Reel 7/8/9, Spectrum Max 9/10
Now Available two super travel sized 6 piece spey rods
7136-6 Sonic 13’ 6” The perfect summer run rod that can see duty for big Alaskan rainbows and TDF Sea Run Browns as well. Grande Ronde, Deschutes, Rogue or Umpqua this is the ideal year round rod in Oregon. This is a rod every spey enthusiasts everywhere-should own.
• Line Match: Skagit Max Launch 550, RIO Scandi 520, Short Head Spey 7/8
• Sink Tip Use: 15’ 150 grain in type 3, 6 and 8. T-8/T-11/T-14 in 10’, 12.5.’ Spey VersiLeader 10.’
• M.O.W. Match: Light/T-8, Medium/T-11, Heavy/T-14
• Reel Match: Spectrum LT 9/10, Sage Spey 6/7/8, Spectrum 9/10
9140-6 Sonic 14’ 6 piece 9wt. The ideal Big winter steelhead, King Salmon combo rod has arrived (for those traveling to the Kola Peninsula this is your stick). The Clackamas to the Skagit, the Kispiox to the Kola, this is the rod to “get-er-done”.
• Line Match: Skagit Max Launch 700, RIO Scandi 640, Short Head Spey 9/10, Mid-Head Spey 9/10, Long Head Spey 9/10
• Sink Tip Use: 15’ 150 & 166 grain type 3, 6 and 8. T-11/T-14 in 10’ 12.5’ and 15’ lengths. T-17 in 11’, 13’ & 15’. Spey VersiLeader 12’ all types.
• M.O.W Match: Medium/T-11, Heavy/T-14, Extra Heavy/T-17
• Reel Match: Sage Spey Reel 7/8/9, Spectrum Max 9/10
Sage Sonic Switch Rods 2021
Strategic. Effective. Fun
George Cook/Erik Johnson
Application for Switch Rods in the Pacific Northwest stretches both far and wide. Switch Rods allow the Northwest Angler to pursue a multitude of specific fisheries as well as fishing methodologies with one tool. Examples of this abound:
• Strategic, tight-corridor Spey use
• Beach overhead casting on Puget Sound, Lake fishing in Eastern Washington
• Single hand/Two Hand nymph fishing for both trout and steelhead
• Small “Baby” Spey rod for Steelhead, Sea-Run Browns, Sea-Run Dollies, Silvers and Chums
Specific examples of these methods and the applicable versatility could be seen as…
Alaska-SE Alaska coastal steelhead fisheries, along with Spring Rainbow fishing, spey or overhead, swinging sculpins or leeches. Overhead Beach fishing for Dollies and Salmon (Outbound Cold Water Line). Transcending to fall fishing with indicators for both Rainbows and Dollies as well as fall Steelhead fishing in South Central Alaska.
Washington-Lots going on in the Evergreen State-overhead casting on the beaches of Puget Sound (Outbound Cold Water Line) for resident Coho, Sea-run Cutthroat, migratory Coho and Chum salmon; nymph fishing trout on the Yakima transcending to nymph fishing for Steelhead on the Klickitat or Methow; strategic single-hand spey-use for summer-runs on the Stilly; tight corridor Spey-use on the Sol Duc in February; bombshot cast with the Outbound Line on Eastern Washington lakes.
Oregon- Nymph fishing for Steelhead on Saturday on the Rogue transcending to single hand Spey or tradition spey casting swinging flies on the Umpqua for Steelhead on Sunday. Also Coastal Oregon Winter Steelhead.
All in all, the Switch Rod concept allows for a single tool for multiple tasks. Versatility is at a premium, as these rods excel in both the single hand as well as the two hand approach. Be it fishing the swing, indicator game, or bomb shot beach use, angler’s throughout the Pacific Northwest will come to treasure the use of a switch rod.
SAGE SONIC 7116-4
For those in pursuit of Steelhead, outsized Sea Run Dollies, big Alaskan Rainbows along with TDF Browns this rod is a true trout/anadromous cross over, “the .30-06 of switch”.
Reel Match: Spectrum LT 7/8, Spectrum 7/8
Sink Tip Use: 15’ in 129 grain type 3, 6 & 8 densities. T-8 & T-11 in 10’ & 12.5.” 10’ Spey Versileaders: All types.
M.O.W. Match: Light/T-8, Medium/T-11
Line Matches:
• General Spey: Skagit Max Power 475, RIO Scandi 435, Switch Chucker #7
• Tight Quarters Spey: RIO Skagit Max Power 475
• Beach/Lake: RIO Scandi 435, RIO Cold Water Outbound WF-8-F/I
• Focused Nymph Fishing: RIO Switch Chucker #7, RIO Switch Line 7/8
Sage Sonic 8116-4
A true Anadromous performer, the 8116-4 is ideal for Alaskan rainbows, Steelhead and Silvers alike. Couple this as a true “double threat” switch rod covering such diverse environments as Oregon’s Rogue one day and the Umpqua the next. The TDF crowd has its Sea Run Brown rod; along with a wide range summer run and Alaska cross over stick.
Reel Match: Spectrum LT 7/8, Spectrum 7/8
Sink Tip Use: 15’ in 129 grain type 3, 6 & 8 densities. T-8, T-11 & T-14 in 10’, 12.5’
M.O.W. Match: Light/T-8, Medium/T-11, Heavy/T-14 10’ tip
Line Matches:
General Spey: Skagit Max Power 525 (can combine with Medium M.O.W. Floating Tip for nymph fishing), RIO Scandi 480
Tight Quarters Spey: Skagit Max Power 525
Beach/Lake: Outbound Cold Water WF-9-F/I, RIO Scandi 480
Focused Nymph Fishing: RIO Switch Chucker #8, RIO Switch Line 8/9
Redington Claymore Trout Spey Rods 2021
George Cook/ Erik Johnson
2110-4 11’ 4pc 2 wt: The little guy trout spey is upon us. Bringing performance and value to center stage the 2wt Claymore brings true trout spey to the west, be it an easy-going soft hackle swing session, or select streamers swung mid-current the delightful ultra-lightweight toy has arrived.
• Line Match: RIO Skagit Trout Spey (Head) #2/3 250gr, RIO Trout Spey (Scandi) #2 230gr, Single Hand Spey WF5F
• Sink Tips: 10’ MOW Light Sink Tip, 10’ Scandi Light Scandi Versi-leader’s All Types
• MOW match: MOW Light Series (all types)
• Reel Match: Rise 7/8, Spectrum LT 7/8, Spectrum C 7/8
3113-4 11’ 3” 4pc 3 wt: Trout Spey in a 3wt provides versatility across a wide range of angling pursuits. From mid-current salmon fly endeavors, to Sculpzilla (size 8) sneaky swims, the 3wt Trout Spey is destined to become a western favorite. Be it Trout, Southern Oregon, Northern California half pounders the 3113 Claymore will find its place in haunts both near and far.
• Line Match: Trout Spey (Scandi) #3 265gr, Skagit Trout Spey (Head) #3/4 300gr, Single Hand Spey WF6F
• Sink Tips: 10’ Standard Sink Tips (55gr) Matches with Trout Spey (Scandi/Skagit), 10’ MOW Light Sink Tip, 10’ Scandi Light Scandi Versi-leader’s All Types
• MOW match: MOW Light Series (all types)
• Reel Match: Rise 7/8, Spectrum LT 7/8, Spectrum C 7/8
4116-4 11’ 6” 4pc 4wt: Small plays big here. 4wt in trout spey takes the angler straight to the men’s tees for trout, West Coast half Pounders along with sea-run Cuts and Dollies. Summer time swings for aggressive smallmouth makes the menu as well. In the 4wt. theater fly use size takes a jump up providing a list of targets and success stories for the taking… start the truck, Launch the boat.
• Line Match: Skagit Trout Spey (Head) #4/5 350gr, Trout Spey (Scandi) #4 305gr, Single Hand Spey WF7F, Skagit Max Power 325
• Sink Tips: 10’ Standard Sink Tips (65gr) Matches with Trout Spey (Scandi/Skagit), 10, 12.5’ MOW Light and Medium Tips, and Scandi Versi-Leader’s All Types.
• MOW Match: Light and Medium MOW Series
• Reel Match: Rise 7/8, Spectrum 7/8, Spectrum LT 7/8
Additional line match info is available from RIO here.
