The new Sage SALT boasts best in class casting distance as well as some of best accuracy thanks to the vibration-dampening effects of the Sage Konnetic composites. The rod also proved sensitive enough to provide good feedback on strikes and the strong spine needed to fight powerful fish into the net. The rod is a bit heavier than some, and the swing-weight can wear on the arm after a long day of fishing, but part of that is because you’ll also be working a lot more line than you’re used to! Whether fighting warm or cold water fish—bones or salmon—we found the Salt a masterful rod.

Fit and feel
The deep royal blue Sage Salt is a beautifully crafted rod that feels comfortable in hand, whether casting or fighting fish. My largish hands fit perfectly on the full-wells grip, and the fighting butt nestled snugly into my palm when wrestling hard-charging carp and salmon—two of the northwest’s fightingest fish!

Distance and Accuracy
I found myself casting further, with better accuracy, then I’ve ever cast before when swinging the Salt. Even moderately experienced anglers found they could throw more line than normal, with good precision, but when I added in even a modestly-performed double-haul, I was reaching new personal-best distances.

General performance
The Salt boasts best in class casting distance as well as some of best accuracy. The rod also proved sensitive enough to provide good feedback on strikes and the strong spine needed to fight powerful fish into the net.