Gear Review: Sage Launch 690-4 LCH

The Launch is Sage’s introductory fly rod. The version that I bought and am reviewing is the 690-4 meaning a six weight, 9′ (foot), four piece rod. The price is $235.00 for the rod which comes with a case and Sage’s unconditional lifetime warranty.

Pick up your Sage Launch fly rod at CaddisFlyShop.com.

I fish the rod with an Orvis Battenkill Mid-Arbor (Size IV, Gold) and a RIO Grand line. The rod is an unusual color that almost defies description but pleases me and when paired with the gold anodized reel is a handsome set up. The cork is high quality, the grip is comfortable, the eyes are of good quality, the hardware is nice and the seat is attractive enough and functional. The only problem with the craftsmanship is that the epoxy on the wraps could be cleaner, there are some bubbles in the epoxy that were not removed during manufacturing process. The fish haven’t noticed though I have.

Here’s what Sage has to say about the Launch:

Launch Series & Outfits

Developing G5 Technology clearly demonstrated that the key to better casting is the ability to feel the rod load. With our Launch Series rods, we applied what we’ve learned to create a smooth, progressive power curve and an extremely high strength-to-weight ratio. This means Launch Series rods provide exceptional line connection or feel, allowing anglers to cast better and more easily.

Purchasing a fly rod is an exercise in compromise even for those of us with unlimited funds since no rod does everything pefectly. There are also the matters of personal preference, what the rod is going to be used for and what attributes the caster is looking for. When I was looking for a new rod, I wanted something that would have the backbone to punch a fly into a stiff breeze on our big rivers but also wanted it to provide some cushioning when a large fish strikes. I like to swing traditional soft hackles and their variants during the summer and several times a season large wild trout seperate my fly from my tippet striking under tension in a heavy current. I wanted that to stop. I also wanted to pay my mortgage and put gas in the truck. I am a fan of Sage products and it seemed like my best options were the Sage Fli and the Launch. I tried both out in the parking lot and preferred the Launch despite the fact that it was a bit cheaper.

The Sage Lauch is a medium-fast action rod and as advertised is quite progressive. I learned to cast on a fast action rod but now I find that I actually prefer something a little slower. The Launch is easy to cast and for me it just feels right. As advertised it has a fantastic line feel–you really feel the line loading. It is slightly slower than the Fli but that is what I was looking for–something a fish can put a decent bend in before reaching the backbone. The rod excels casting dry flies in the range of thirty to fifty feet (where most of my fishing takes place). Its performance suffers a little when casting heavy two nymph set-ups. It isn’t the ideal chuck and duck rod and is definitely not a steelhead piece but it casts heavy nymphs well enough for me. You also need about five to seven feet of fly line out before the rod starts casting sweetly.

The bottom line is that the Sage Launch is a very good trout rod at a excellent price that catches fish. Our grandfathers just might have killed for a rod this good. For those of you on a budget (like me) or who just love a good deal, the Sage Launch is worthy of your consideration. I took this photo on the rods first trip to the river and before I bought the new reel. This is what it is all about: