I like rods that can do it all. The fly rod I’ve had for years is not really good at anything, but it does ok at everything and that’s stemmed from the fact that I can’t afford the rod I really want (but you should buy because it’s totally, completely worth it), and the fact that I like to use only one fly rod on the water and focus on the fishing. Sage has come out with a new fly rod that’s designed to fit that mold, but comes it at half the price you’d expect, which means that it’s likely the best rod in its classâit is Sage after all.
Photo: The Sage Pulse is a thing of beauty; the details in this fly rod will make any angler fall in love.
The Pulse rod, $450, is designed to be your workhorse, the rod that you use for every presentation under the sun, and even those gaudy and awesome streamers you throw under the light of the moon. Whether you’re looking to lay down subtle dry flies or sling big, meaty streamers, the Pulse is meant to do it all, and do it all better than other rods. This fast action rod is made from Sage’s Graphite IIIe technology, which means that you’ll have plenty of power and durability to toss the big stuff, but also not have to worry about damaging the rod after it bangs around your kayak. That same technology also means your fast action speed will be paired with a connected feel that you won’t find in other rods.
Photo: The Sage Pulse is available in saltwater or freshwater versionsâthe saltwater version gives you an added fighting butt.
Handcrafted in the USA, right in Sage’s Bainbridge Island, WA shop, the rod is simply gorgeous. This beauty is paired with custom-designed components like a lichen-colored finish, gloss-black anodized up-locking reel seat, and hard chromed snake guides and tip top. It’s the little details that really seperate the PULSE from other rods in this price rangle, like a rosewood insert in the reel seat, Fuji ceramic stripping guides and  super soft cork in the handle and fighting butt (saltwater version). I’ve got my sights set on a Pulse rod and I’m not sure any other rod could stand up to that kind of versatility. Knowing this rod can handle any situation that might come up on a trip is what will ease my mind and let me focus on other things, like trying to choose the right reel, or whether I need another boat. (Spoiler alert: you always need a new boat).
Watch a highlight video of the Sage Pulse fly rod in action:
Available in freshwater sizes 3-6wt and saltwater sizes 6-8wt. The Pulse also comes with a black nylon rod tube with a divided line for easy and safe storage. For more information on Sage, or their new Pulse fly rod, check out their website, SageFlyFish.com.
