Sage Trout LL // In Depth Field Test, Review, and Dry Fly Fishing Tips

[@greeny3013]

Joe, huge fan man. I've had the LL for a year now and this thing is great mountain rod for me. My wife and I have been planning a trip from PA to WA for the past few months (thanks COVID). Hopefully we'll have an opportunity to stop in and say hello. Keep up the great reviews. They mean more to your followers than you'll ever know!

[@redsflyshop]

Great feedback, it's a FINE rod.

[@thewetfly9207]

Beautiful bending shape 👍🎣

[@JosiahLaser]

Hey, love the content. I've seen a couple videos now, quick tip. If you need to get a close up shot (especially outdoors) throw a background behind the object(open palm works best) and come in close with the camera and it will help autofocus.

[@justal4844]

Just seeing this and wondering (i.e. I don't know..) if the LL was the successor to the Sage Circa? I have a 8'6" Circa 4wt and it's a one-trick pony for dry fly presentation - and I LOVE throwing it. Hats off to Joe for chasing those PIGS on big water with that technical rod. I fished the Clark Fork a couple of weeks ago and the Circa stayed home in the garage.

[@ojchart]

Good review. I consider this the best rod Sage has ever made to date. JMHO

[@redsflyshop]

That's a powerful testimonial, thanks for sharing. It is a fantastic rod.

[@cachi-7878]

I have the 9’ 4wt LL from the nineties. Haven’t fished lately but it’s a sweet rod for sure.

[@profpigeon5441]

this is the most fun ive see n anyone doin a review haha

[@redsflyshop]

hahah, yes thank you I love doing this job!

[@austing9818]

orvis recon euro nymphing rod review

[@isupportthecurrentthing5225]

Austin G i second this

[@legosseux]

What size of fishing rod do you use in this video ?

[@isupportthecurrentthing5225]

Would this rod in 4wt paired with rio gold wf4f cast a #10 and #12 unweighted soft hackle or all fur wet?

[@garygbur3992]

Joe, I have a basic question: Do you use barbed or barbless hooks for your catch and release fishing, such as in this video? I have lost many fish going barbless and I’m wondering what you do ? Thanks!

[@redsflyshop]

I always use barbless, my preference would be to only use/sell a true "barbless" but many need to be pinched. Work on using low rod angles to one side or the other and see if that retains hookups better for you.

[@daviddoerr749]

Hows it compare to the Shakespeare ugly stick medium action joe? Also, whats the cfs on the river going to be for tomorrow? I'm planning a trip.. only kidding, summers right around the corner, be safe out there and look forward to maybe seeing you on the water.

[@redsflyshop]

This was a good one, I saw that first line and was like "oh boy", here goes diplomacy haha.

[@daviddoerr749]

Haha loved that video btw, looked like you found some mature trout that trip.

[@profpigeon5441]

I don't need this rod due to the kind of fishing I do, and yes its pricey, but I had the pleasure of using one for a week out west and It really is the ultimate dry fly tool. It doesn't so man little things great.

[@Iheartmyson]

Do they make the LL series again? This was my first quality flyrod back in the day. Bought as new ,But used, from a friend. Now the LL was a Very slow rod. Not for rookies who still learning to cast... haha But darnit I still feel so stupid that I sold ii later. I think it was for a Sage SL (?) : a canon. Very fast rod. With 2 haules the complete line was on the water. In a straight line too. Boy, I was greedy back then and wanted the newest all the time. Now I keep what I have if its good anyway.

[@redsflyshop]

They do, its an updated version with new materials and an action that seems to load up just as easy, but rebounds a bit faster than the old LL. I believe its also more durable!

[@User-es2yz]

Wulff ambush vs SA spey lite vs OPST Commando Smooth for trout streamer fishing on lakes and rivers. Must be able to overhand cast as I fish in kayaks a lot

[@redsflyshop]

I would say the Spey Lite. It feels less "chunky" to me. Use long 12' Versileaders on it for the lakes. redsflyfishing.com/products/sa-spey-lite-integrated-skagit-head-perfect-for-trout-spey?_pos=2&_sid=23d9ffc10&_ss=r

[@TheoM76]

Could you possibly do a side by side with the MOD 490 & the TLL 490?

[@bigmick812]

Yo Joe! How low is the river t Right now?! Nice video

[@redsflyshop]

Quite good, this was today. The dry fly game requires much accuracy however.

[@bigmick812]

Red's Fly Shop Awesome thanks for the quick reply

[@josephmcspadden6453]

My main trout rod for the past few years has been the 9’ 5wt Sage Accel. Is this too similar a rod to consider adding the LL or would it make more sense to get a Sage Dart for small trout?

[@redsflyshop]

The ACCEL is a heavier rod especially in the butt section, the LL would be a nice compliment to that if you are downsizing to a #4 or a #3.

[@redsflyshop]

The DART is fabulous, really is a nice rod for extremely small water where some demanding casts under the canopy are required.

[@josephmcspadden6453]

@@redsflyshop thanks for the intel

[@redsflyshop]

@@josephmcspadden6453 Anytime, we have really good inventory of these rods and they include a free fly line of your choice. It will ring up free automatically at checkout if you decide to pull the trigger!

[@josephmcspadden6453]

@@redsflyshop Thanks, I just placed my first order through the website last night after checking out the tippet vid. I’ve always enjoyed the videos but for some reason it just dawned on me that I can order from you guys even though I’m on the east coast. Just got through the R8 review and now I’m thinking that might make the best all-purpose upgrade for a workhorse stick.

[@Detroit3Pistons]

Would you over line this rod? I like my Scientific Anglers Amplitude Smooth Infinity line. Would this be to heavy for this rod?

[@redsflyshop]

No I wouldn't outright overline it like "5 on 4", you would be robbing its soul. The Infinity would play fine on this rod, but the SA Amp Trout might be even better for precision. Here is another review of this rod, I'll put the link in the next comment here.

[@redsflyshop]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/f6HRaYOFrc2sZ6M

[@Detroit3Pistons]

@@redsflyshop All I hear about that line is that it’s geared towards dry flies could I do a small dry dropper set ups with it and roll cast?

[@goldiestarks]

How does it compare to the redington classic trout and the sage dart?

[@redsflyshop]

It's going to be heavier than the DART, not really a comparison between this and the Classic Trout. It may have a similar curve but isn't even in the same class. Side by side, no contest.

[@hesko125]

Sage ll or winston pure for carolinas dry dropper fun?

[@ocsteved]

HA, a bit late...1st trout = a beautiful bow Joe. Excellent description of the rod.....

[@kingfisherphil]

a Sage LL 389 sold on ebay for $2225 yesterday! Makes the new model look a snip!

[@ILM787]

I love my old school LL! But it sounds like I should test the new school version.

[@redsflyshop]

It's a sharp stick.

[@TheRealChetManley]

Is that the redington zero reel? How do you like it?

[@redsflyshop]

It is, that reel is ok for a cheap Click 'n Pawl. For your light trout rigs it works just fine. We use them in the shop for demo setups when we need to go cast or fish rods for testing. I've not seen any issues with them, it all depends on the rod you are putting it on. If I invest $500 in a rod, I'll put $200-$250 into the reel. So if my my overall budge for a complete setup is $300 (I'll put $200 into the rod and $100 into the reel). That's how we try to balance overall spend for a setup.

[@goopee76]

Beautiful water to cast this fantastic set up. I saw that reel before and completely forgot the name, please someone help me 😉 Redington zero???

[@redsflyshop]

Yes exactly, its a reel we keep in the shop for testing rods. Very light and affordable. We have a bunch and they have been very reliable. redsflyfishing.com/products/redington-zero-fly-reel-and-spare-spools?_pos=1&_sid=61bf68254&_ss=r

[@saabvanderlinden9214]

How is it against the Sage Mod?... Is it a bit faster? ... More 'tippy'?... Some say is more medium (fast),Than real medium..

[@redsflyshop]

I would say quite similar, just not an obnoxious color.

[@saabvanderlinden9214]

This.... or the Winston pure?

[@redsflyshop]

@@saabvanderlinden9214 Oh that is a tough choice. I personally have and use my 490-4 PURE more than I reach for the LL. Not sure why, but I do.

[@anonym1anonym243]

Perhaps a stupid question, but how does it compare to scott g/ g2? I have the method in 5wt and an old hardy shadow as a backup in this wtclass, so to compliment my 5fishery this on looks.really interesting. Good review, greets from Norway :-)

[@redsflyshop]

Not familiar with Scott products so I am unable to speak to this comparison with any accuracy. Rather than pretend to have an answer I'll have to say I have no idea.

[@ibookje]

Appreciate your honesty!

[@angustroutman3494]

I have an original 590 that I will never part with. I have caught more fish on tiny flies with that rod . A true trout weapon! As always great video!!

[@redsflyshop]

You bet that ol' rod has a spirit.

[@ibookje]

Joe why use an overweighted line like the Rio Gold on this moderate action rod? I'd say use a true-to-weight line like the SA Mastery Trout. I own the original 490 LL and RPL. I'd love to cast the new LL.

[@paulvoelker327]

I think you're thinking of Rio Grand which is the half weight heavier line, not Rio Gold

[@ibookje]

The Rio Gold is about 30-40% heavy fly line. The Grip Grand is a full line weight heavy

[@redsflyshop]

Because it casts great.

[@ibookje]

Okay fair enough! :)

[@nathanduso9802]

How is this rod compared to a Sage zxl?

[@redsflyshop]

Similar action, but you'll find the new Trout LL to be "tighter" and a bit straighter casting. The ZXL can wander a little bit.

[@legosseux]

I want to buy this fishing rod but I hesitate between 486 and 490

[@redsflyshop]

If you are on big rivers like this, 9' is sure nice. For small to mid-sized water 8'6" would be better. I was fishing a 9' rod in this video.

[@legosseux]

@@redsflyshop Merci Beaucoup from Québec !!

[@COAFFieldTeam]

Great info!

[@wespuckdog3897]

How does it compare to the Winston Pure?

[@benruhme8883]

How does it compare to the Mod?

[@redsflyshop]

IMO it's tough to tell the difference. It's not bright green which is nice though.

[@ixoye56]

Nice review, but I like to know how it compare to Scott G and Winston Pure?

[@davidthomas7465]

I have a Scott G2 and thought the same thing. That rod is great up to like 40 feet

[@redsflyshop]

I don't know a think about the Scott G, but I have the Winston PURE and it really comes down to personal preference. We sell both the LL and the PURE, and if you have been satisfied with Sage, buy Sage. If you trust and prefer a Winston feel, buy Winston. They are very similar IMO. I could fish either one for the rest of my life.

[@hesko125]

@@redsflyshop that's a strong statement. I am between the winston and sage for small to medium carolina streams. For dry flys. Droppers and light streamers. I plan on calling your shope soon as my local one doesn't sell winston, maybe you can match their discount for a purple heart guy with project healing waters. Love the content. @redsflyshop

[@57markyboy]

I have an access 8'6". How do they compare? great review.

[@redsflyshop]

Is that a Sage ACCEL you are referring to? I'm not sure exactly which rod you are referencing but if it is an ACCEL the LL is much lighter, more delicate, and a finer rod all the way around. It's simply built with high grade materials.

[@57markyboy]

@@redsflyshop Whoops, spellcheck got me. Yes the accell. I use it for the same thing. Just might have to give the LL a try. Thanks

[@Clouserfam]

Red's Fly Shop I can’t tell if the Trout LL is a 4wt or 5wt. Would you recommend one over the other?

[@Belbivdevoe]

I prefer the Hardy Zephrus 8.5' 4wt.. it's an absolute laser..

[@joshhams5666]

St croix rods?

[@redsflyshop]

Never heard of em. Joking.

[@User-es2yz]

Josh Hams they just don’t carry them. Kelly Galloup likes them if that means anything haha

[@69texaseyes]

Not a good quality rod. Blanks are not very good if their 300 dollar bass rods are anything to go by. A 300 dollar rod shouldn't feel like a Berkly Cherywood in the hand. The Mexico made MOJO series may be worst rod series ever fished. Stay away.

[@User-es2yz]

69 Texaseyes yeah I’ll have to disagree there

[@pam0077]

I was really looking forward to getting this flyrod in a 5-weight, until I read the 2020, 32 flyrod, 5-weight shootout review by Yellowstone Angler. The Trout LL scored the worst, by far, even when compared to flyrods that cost 1/4 of the price.

[@redsflyshop]

Sage always struggles in that shootout. Never when the consumer gets to score it though haha.

[@bluejacket645]

Joe, could you fish smaller hoppers with it?

[@redsflyshop]

Oh ABSOLUTELY. If you are referring to the 9' 4 weight that is what I was using in the video with exactly that size range of fly.

[@brooktroutangler5917]

a good net guy is hard to find

[@frankbutta9344]

Voodoo Stuff? Whatever sells product.

[@redsflyshop]

Its just light hearted humor dude, this is fly fishing.

[@pascalguillonneau9396]

Bonjour 9pied soie 4 OK

[@arnaudcoutant1306]

A

[@glencamblin]

Looks like u need a tape measure brother. Those first 2 were 15-16" fish.