Sage R8 Core

R8 TECHNOLOGY

For most of us, an idyllic day on the water is not when we’re thinking more, but when we’re thinking less. Finding that state of fishing in the moment, where instinct and experience bring us to an almost zen-like awareness of each subtle motion and movement—that’s what R8 is all about. It’s not a race, but a state we all aim to reach out on the water. With R8 we enhance that two-way connection from hand to fly and back for greater feel, flow, and control.

R8 CORE - MUTLI-APPLICATION / FAST ACTION

R8 Core is a rod family focused on maximum versatility and applies new revolutionary material technology through the forward thinking lens of what we see out on the water, where one rod needs to show even greater range. At its Core, R8 CORE traces a direct lineage to Sage’s multi application vision, one shaped by the fishing evolutions happening all around us—from habitats we stalk and waters we frequent, to the flies we fish and the diversity of species we now target. Coming in a range from 3wt to 9wt, with a variety of lengths from 8’6” to 10’0”, there’s sure to be a model to fit the core needs of every freshwater angler.

- Sage website Sage R8 Core (farbank.com)

" Sage rod designer Peter Walker, clearly sought a rod that prioritized fishability over raw casting prowess. The Igniter has become broadly accepted as an all-purpose fast action fly rod, more versatile than the Method and covering some of the ground formerly occupied by the X series. R8 Core lands at the center point between Igniter and Trout LL, but Walker emphasizes that the action of each model is purposeful and unique.

Walker is keen on R8 technology. “We’re always trying to build a better spring.” The new graphite consists of high-density fibers with improved sintering, a high modulus material that may be used higher on the blank without sacrificing strength. Lightness and responsiveness are both enhanced, improving “the spring” and underlying his ability to create rods of different character from the same material."

- Review: John Duncan ... Telluride Angler, April 5 2022

"The R8 Core is Sage's latest all-water flagship series, which replaces the successful X series after over a half-decade on the market. The buzz around this rod has been HUGE, even by Sage's standards. There are good reasons for this: Sage has constantly pushed the envelope regarding rod design and graphite technology ... Sage has always been at the forefront of pushing the envelope of fly rod designs, and they have hit the mark again. With the R8, Sage has made great strides in crafting a trout rod that is a true all-around performer. The R8 possesses an almost chameleon-like ability to switch from a delicate dry fly rod to a powerhouse workhorse. Sage's rod designers have built their most complete 5wt and one of the top rods, period."

- Review: R8 Core 590-4 ... Trident Fly Fishing, April 6 2022

R8 CORE

DETAILS

Revolution 8 Technology Silver Pine blank color Slate primary thread wraps with graduated White and Grey trim Fuji ceramic stripper guides with hard chromed snake guides and tip-top Laser etched line weight on slide band Black rod bag with new quick-tie cord lock for faster, easier, and cleaner storage Aluminum rod tube with Sage medallion 3WT - 6WT Premium Flor grade snub-nose half-wells cork handle Sustainable Ziricote wood insert with anodized aluminum up-locking reel seat 5WT - 9WT Premium Flor grade full-wells cork handle with cork/EVA fighting butt Gunmetal anodized aluminum up-locking reel seat Integrated hidden hook keeper in reel seat