Sage 790-4 Power R8

Reviews

1. Rated 5 out of 5

   This is a model by which the whole series will be judged because a fast action 7-weight is such a useful fly rod. Many dedicated anglers fished the Igniter 790-4. All will be impressed with the new Power R8 790-4. Fish it with heavy sink tips, bass lines, aggressive streamer lines such as the Rio Outbound or SA Titan, or take it to the flats with a bonefish/redfish taper. Carp, pike, schoolie stripers, largemouth bass, salmon and plus sized trout are all on notice.

   The power of this rod is undeniable, but once again, my attention is drawn to the improvement in castability and feel over the Igniter 790-4. These aren’t cosmetic improvements. I get more line speed with fewer casting strokes from this rod, and better control of my loop shape at distance for the longest possible casts and best presentations in the wind. It’s a better fly rod.

   John Duncan (Telluride Angler)

2. Rated 5 out of 5

   The jack of all trades in the Power R8 lineup, the 790 feels like an improvement in every way over the Igniter 790. It’s friendlier to the caster, offers more range and nuance, and doesn’t demand the same level of focus to get the job done. The Power R8 790 spans the spectrum of fly fishing—from trout to light saltwater and everything in between.

   Lines with a bit more mass or a sinking front section feel particularly at home, and the 790 handles awkward setups with ease while making light work of heavy lifting. If you’re throwing large trout streamers, Triple Dungeons, or marabou ménage-style flies, this rod keeps everything under control. The Elite Predator series feels perfectly at home on this commanding 7-weight, pick your density and go. Run it fast and sleek with a bonefish taper, or step into an Elite Flats Pro for a feel closer to the Predator series in the saltwater.

   With stability under funky lines and big flies, exceptional line speed, and pinpoint accuracy in both sight- and blind-casting scenarios, the Power R8 790 is refined, capable, and ready for a litany of fly-fishing pursuits.

   Richard Post (Telluride Angler)