Sage R8 Core

Sage R8 Core Fly Rod is designed for anglers who need one rod family to cover a wide range of situations. Built on R8 graphite, the Sage R8 Core offers increased strength, improved energy transfer, and a more connected feel. Its fast-action design gives anglers control across changing presentations and varying water types, from close-quarters work to longer technical casts.

Applications and target species

The Sage R8 Core Fly Rod performs across almost any scenario. Suitable for trout, yellowfish, bass and saltwater species, it handles dry flies, nymphs, and streamers with equal confidence. Whether fishing small streams, fast-flowing rivers, stillwaters or saltater flats, the Sage R8 Core provides reliable control and consistent loop stability at all distances.

Design, action and construction

The Sage R8 Core Fly Rod uses R8 graphite to deliver higher strength-per-weight and smoother energy transfer. Fuji ceramic stripper guides, hard-chromed snake guides, premium Flor-grade grips, and model-specific reel seats ensure refined performance. Finished in Silver Pine with slate and white trim wraps, the Sage R8 Core blends durability, feel, and fast-action capability for versatile freshwater use.

Complete Control

• Effortless energy transfer with a more connected, intuitive feel
• Maximised versatility and control across changing conditions
• Purpose-built to fish effectively, not just cast

Features

• R8 graphite for enhanced strength and smoother casting performance
• Silver Pine blank with slate wraps and graduated white/grey trim
• Fuji ceramic stripper guides with hard-chromed snake guides
• Sustainable Ziricote wood insert on 3–6 wt models
• Corrosion-resistant anodised reel seat on 7–9 wt models
• Premium Flor-grade grips matched to rod weight and use
• Aluminium rod tube with Sage medallion and upgraded rod bag

Freshwater 3–6 wt models

• Sustainable Ziricote wood insert with anodised aluminium up-locking reel seat
• Premium Flor-grade snub-nose half-wells cork grip

Freshwater + Light Saltwater 7–9 wt models

• Corrosion-resistant anodised aluminium up-locking reel seat
• Premium Flor-grade full-wells cork grip with cork/EVA fighting butt

Models available

Model	Rod weight	Rod length	Sections
Sage R8 Core 390-4	3 weight	9 ft	4 piece
Sage R8 Core 486-4	4 weight	8 ft 6 in	4 piece
Sage R8 Core 490-4	4 weight	9 ft	4 piece
Sage R8 Core 590-4	5 weight	9 ft	4 piece
Sage R8 Core 6100-4FB	6 weight	10 ft FB	4 piece
Sage R8 Core 690-4	6 weight	9 ft	4 piece
Sage R8 Core 790-4	7 weight	9 ft FB	4 piece
Sage R8 Core 890-4	8 weight	9 ft FB	4 piece
Sage R8 Core 990-4	9 weight	9 ft FB	4 piece