Sage 596-4 FB R8 Core

Reviews

1. Rated 5 out of 5

   No rod is this series surpasses the performance and feel of the 596-4. In terms of taper and flex profile, there seem to be 2 groups of R8 Core fly rods: stiff-tipped and progressive. This is one is progressive, meaning that it casts from short to long with action that feels metered to the power input from the caster. It responds to both touch and power. It casts off the tip, mid section and butt, generating line speed and dead level loops at all distances. A marvel of design, this rod succeeds the 597-4 X with equal casting capability but even greater control, most noticeable when throwing in the wind or horsing a nymph/indicator rig. For the longest cast of your life, stick an SA Infinity Taper on the 596 and see how much line you can hold in the air before shooting. A proud hero caster, the R8 596-4 is just as impressive at reasonable fishing distance with a Rio Gold, SA MPX, Airflo Universal Taper, etc. Cast all day without tiring. Roll cast across the river. Pay out 40’ stack mends like you’re feeding pigeons. This is one heck of a fly rod.

   John Duncan (Telluride Angler)

2. Rated 5 out of 5

   9’ 6” 5wt rods are quickly becoming the go-to for many dedicated nymph fisherman. They are lighter than 10’ rods and have better reach than a standard 9’ rod. The 596/4 FB R8 Core is a great fishing tool. It is not as powerful as the 597/4 X was, but it has great feel and is a very fun rod to fish. Similar to other longer rods in the R8 family it is slightly heavy in the tip and will feel best with a heavier 5wt class reel. It is a rod that can easily be over-powered by the caster so be conscious of your casting stroke and listen to what the rod wants. Once you get the feel for this rod you’ll love it. This rod will throw several fly lines well. My favorite fishing line on here however is the SA Amplitude Smooth Infinity WF5F. This line is great for roll casting and sending big mends across the river.

   Parker Thompson (Telluride Angler)