Sage z axis 12'6" or 11' 5 wt.?

[flygolf]

Wondering if anyone out there has tested either or both of these rods and what they thought about them? I would mainly use on the American for half pounders. Any thoughts, opinions, etc. would be appreciated.

[Jasonh]

I have the 5126 and it is one heck of a rod. It is a big 5 weight and I would probably consider it closer to a 6. It is really light in the hand and has a good flex. Enough to have fun with 16" trout or half pounders and stout enough to land 10 lb steelhead. As for lines, I fish a 6/7 AFS and for a skagit somewhere between 400-420 grains. Either a RIO 500 cut back to 415 grains or a airflo compact skagit 420 is great. 5/6 Afs is good as well but the 6/7 seems to turnover heavier poly leaders and bigger flies better. Hope this helps.

Jason Hartwick

[Bill Kiene semi-retired]

I would say the 11' #5 weight Sage Switch rod is lighter action than the 12'6" #5 Sage Spey rod.

Chuck Campana has the 11' #5 and really likes it.

Many around the shop have the 12'6" #5 Sage Spey and like it too.

[double ipa]

I have the 11' 5" and think it would be ideal for half pounders on the A. or the K. I've fished mine on the yuba and feather too. rod is great for single hand nymphing or swinging small soft hackles. I have also fished 12' 6" 5 also, great rod for swinging medium trad flies or smaller(smallest) trailing hook leech patterns even using tips upto type 6.

[Terry Thomas]

Both nice rods, although totally different. The 5110 would fit your needs as described. A light rod not meant to cast heavy bugs and tips. The 5126 is a more versatile rod, in my opinion. It is light enough to enjoy half pounders in the American and Klamath. The 5126 would also allow you to use some of the 10ft. Versi-spey leaders to cast some medium weight flies.