Sage 690-4 FB Power R8

Reviews

1. Rated 5 out of 5

   This version of the 9’ 6-weight is equipped with an aluminum reel seat and fighting butt for saltwater crossover. Built on the same blank as the Power R8 690-4, it has the same casting characteristics except the grip is mounted about 1” higher on the blank to provide an inch sticking out the bottom of the reel seat to which the fighting butt is attached. Although a tiny bit heavier than the regular 690-4, it feels lighter, the improved balance playing a little trick on my senses. Theoretically, mounting the grip higher on the blank would quicken the rod too, but in my hands these cast like the same fly rod. It’s hard to find anything to criticize with these 9’ 6-weights, but the angler should up-line the rod for nymphing to open the casting loop and allow the rod to load easier for roll casting and line mending.

   John Duncan (Telluride Angler)

2. Rated 5 out of 5

   Destined to be an all-time classic, the Sage Power R8 690-4 FB is a mosaic built from the best attributes of the ONE 691, Method 691, and Igniter 691. Ultra-fast rod devotees will immediately recognize the evolution of this lineage. Line speed feels almost pre-loaded, poised and tenuously held within the blank, yearning to reach out and scream line sublimely. There’s a serious lightsaber vibe here, and the Force is strong.

   Distinct and purposeful, the Power R8 690 FB defines itself as the consummate 6-weight for streamer fishing. When pulling sinking lines and soggy streamers from the water, this rod delivers power with intent, removing the thought and adjustment usually required and putting it back on the bank before the thought even fully forms. The efficiency and purpose built into the taper are immediately evident, almost juxtaposed against the rod’s physical lightness. So much strength and power, yet svelte and refined in hand.

   The fighting butt is slightly smaller than those on the 7, 8, and 9, and the full-wells cork follows suit with a slimmer profile. The fighting butt shifts the reel slightly up the blank, and the resulting lightness toward the tip of the 690 FB is noticeable compared to the standard 690. The FB version absolutely devoured exaggerated WF lines with aplomb. It also loved the Gold XP, just a micro hair quicker than the 690 with that line.

   Accolades aside, the most surprising aspect of this rod is its ability to mend and access the lower portion of the blank. On the very first cast, my mind drifted nostalgically back to the ONE 691. The casting feel is remarkably similar, but with the added ability to roll cast and throw mends reasonably well, something the ONE 691 simply didn’t do.

   With the Power R8 690 FB, you can feel the Sage lineage in its soul and clearly witness the evolution of taper design and material innovation with every cast. Freshwater, saltwater—any water that calls for a 6-weight—the Power R8 690 FB answers confidently, delivering consummate performance without hesitation.

   Richard Post (Telluride Angler)