Sage Payload Test with Peter Morse

If you love fly fishing for bass like I do, then you've probably realised that there are not many fly rods out there that are specifically made with bass or predator style fishing in mind. One of the lead contenders in this field is the Sage Payload, and today Morsie and I went out and tested the 6 and 7 weight Payload thoroughly on the water. We put the rods through their paces with a selection of lines to find out what worked best for this style of fishing. Even if you're not specifically looking at the Payload, this review is loaded with good information about what to look for in a rod and line if you want to chase bass on fly.
Peter Morse has a long affiliation with Sage and kindly offered to bring along these 2 rods and a selection of Rio lines for us to try. I am not sponsored or paid by Sage or Rio or affiliated with them, but I do own a number of their rods and reels and I really like them. There are other manufacturers out there who also make great rods, this is just my opinion of the Payload as an end user.
Thank you to Far Bank, Peter Knox and Peter Morse for providing still images for the video.
#flyfishing
#bassonfly
#sageflyfish
#sagepayload

[@trevorgreen2370]

It was interesting to watch how effortlessly Peter casts. His little subtle double haul and the lack of body movement. It also interesting to see and listen to you both talk about the subtle differences in fly lines and their applications. Really enjoyed watching. Thank you.🙏

[@PeachyFlyFishing]

Thanks Trevor! Yeah it's great watching Peter cast, so smooth and efficient!

[@BrianFeesh]

This format is incredibly fun to watch for a gear head. Loved the video, thank you.

[@PeachyFlyFishing]

Ah glad you enjoyed it, thanks Brian!

[@lesperkins8402]

Steve - great practical demonstration of the importance of matching a fly line to a rod. Enjoyed the format you used to present your findings.

[@PeachyFlyFishing]

Thanks Les! Glad you enjoyed it mate! :)

[@spineynorman303]

Interesting gear but the casting lesson was better. Hint - watch Morsie's line hand work on the short double haul. Effortless casting !

[@PeachyFlyFishing]

Thanks, yes it’s always great watching Morsie cast! :)

[@randyguest3524]

So you were using an 8 wt outbound short on the 7 wt?

[@PeachyFlyFishing]

Ah! I see what you're talking about, the graphic I showed of the line taper is for the 8wt. But no, we were fishing the proper line weights for each rod, so the #6 on the 6 and the #7 on the 7. Bear in mind though, the Outbound Short lines are overweighted for loading up larger flies at short range, so the #7 Outbound Short is probably closer to a #8 in grain weight. So it is not recommended to over-line with these lines as they are already on the heavy side.

[@randyguest3524]

I just bought the 7wt and have been looking at lines. Thanks for your help!

[@PeachyFlyFishing]

No problem. I still highly recommend the Rio Predator #7 on the #7 Payload, either in the cold water or tropical version depending on your needs, just the perfect line for this rod I reckon. :)