Sage Classic R8 386-4

Reviews

1. Rated 5 out of 5

   Lovely. This is one of my favorite long 3-weights that I have ever cast. I threw it with a Rio Elite Technical Trout WF3 and have no need to consider another fly line. It has an action unique to long 3-weights, about a 5.5 out of 10 in stiffness, one of the quicker rods in this series but mostly in the evenness with which it flexes. From 10′ to 50′, the casting stroke is natural, unhurried and perfectly measured. This is a true progressive action rod of the highest quality. It generates moderate line speed with gorgeous loops optimized for dry fly presentations with leaders of any length. The butt and lower mid section possess just enough rigidity to add a modest double haul for turning over a long leader with precision or casting in the wind, but not enough to make the rod feel “stiff” in any sense of the term. Most rods in this action class roll cast and mend line pretty well, but this model is exceptional, especially with a long headed line such as the Rio Tech Trout.

   John Duncan (Telluride Angler)

2. Rated 5 out of 5

   The 386 is springy and stable, at once serious and playful, the rod calls to you with a siren’s song toward the water. I cast both the Rio Technical Trout and the Rio Gold on the Classic R8 386 and found both to be excellent with each line adding a little something to the rod. The Gold engages the blank completely as soon as you rock it back to the ready position and the line just levitates in the back cast. The 386 is very connected and matched with the Rio Gold, a moderate and easy bend with a quick and stable recovery with line speed that can be tuned up or toned down. You get a lot of range and control across fly sizes and techniques with this combination.

   The Rio Technical Trout focuses the load a little higher up the blank and accentuates the sweet and supple tip of this wonderful 3-weight. I believe the Classic R8 386 has the softest tip of the Classic R8 rods and an action that is more reminiscent of the Trout LL and Circa rods, a lovely bend with a balanced and pleasant delivery off the tip. I notice the lightness and softer nature of my presentation with the Technical Trout on the 386 compared to the Gold. The line speed is very even with this setup, capable and willing to be turned up slightly, but unwilling to be overpowered. Smooth, even and exact, this rod threw the best loops for me out of the whole series with a Rio Technical Trout. The Gold gives it a hair more line speed and a livelier, more springy character. I would recommend this line for casters with a more aggressive stroke, those that prefer a little more line speed, and dry dropper work. The Classic R8 386 is an ideal light trout rod for after work fishing on the San Miguel and Dolores Rivers. I bet it would be mighty nice on the bank of your favorite little river, too.

   Richard Post