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Congratulations to Nathaniel Linville and Capt. Ian Slater on their recent win in the 2026 March Merkin tournament.
Welcome to Yellow Dog’s Saltwater Invitational, hosted by Turneffe Flats Lodge in Belize and presented to you in partnership with The Angling Company in Key West, Florida. A follow up to the 2025 5-Weight Invitational, this is a detailed, performance-driven evaluation of modern saltwater fly rods including 8, 9, and 11-weight rods. With nearly every major manufacturer represented and participating in this event, we set out to create something that was considerably more detailed and precise than traditional saltwater rod reviews that have – in the past – simply ranked rods based on pure distance and the opinions or preferences of one or two evaluators.
This segment centers on 9-weight fly rods, real permit fishing scenarios, and the terminal tackle used when targeting the black-tailed devil.
Table of Contents
Please Read: What This Is (And What It Isn’t)
Questions and Answers About the Yellow Dog Saltwater Invitational
The Saltwater Invitational Casting Team
Deflection Charts
The Overall Cumulative 9-Weight Fly Rod Rankings
9-Weight Economical Rods Cumulative Rankings
Top Performing 9-Weight Fly Rods by Distance
Standard Deviation Scoring
Echo Fly Rods
G. Loomis Fly Rods
Hardy Fly Rods
Orvis Fly Rods
Redington Fly Rods
Sage Fly Rods
An Interview With Capt. Ian Slater
Please Read: What This Is (And What It Isn’t)
We know what you might be wondering. Which fly rod was the overall “best”?
Sure, as you’ll see in the video segments of the Saltwater Invitational, even we get excited to see which rods land near the top within specific categories. But that was never the point of this evaluation. While some rods finished with higher cumulative scores, our goal was not to crown a single winner and send everyone home. Instead, it was to provide anglers with meaningful, usable data that helps them identify which rods perform best for how and where they actually fish. While we focused our testing on 8-, 9-, and 11-weights for the “Big 3” of saltwater fly fishing–bonefish, permit, and tarpon–these same rod weights also apply to a wide range of other species and scenarios where they find their voice. Dig into the data and find what suits you as an angler.
Fly rod performance is situational. A rod that excels at punching a fly seventy feet into the wind to a tailing permit might be exactly what you are looking for, but that same rod can feel overly stiff and disconnected when a redfish appears at close range in high, tannic water, demanding a quick and accurate presentation in close quarters. If your comfort zone lives in the 40 to 50 foot range, the rods that stood out there deserve your attention. If you regularly fish ultra clear water, where longer presentations matter, there are rods in this lineup that clearly separate themselves at distance. The value of this project lives in those distinctions, not in a single ranked list. It is also important to be clear about what this evaluation represents.
This was a performance based fly rod study, conducted by experienced casters, under repeatable conditions. Each rod was tested according to the manufacturer’s intended design. We controlled variables where possible, including casting environment and fly line, while fully acknowledging that no fly rod evaluation can ever be completely free of subjectivity. That reality is not unique to fly fishing. It exists in golf clubs, skis, surfboards, and virtually every performance driven tool. We also heard the feedback from our previous invitational. About expert casters. About line selection. About subjectivity versus objectivity. About testing environments.
The Saltwater Invitational was intentionally designed to address many of those points by moving the evaluation onto the flats, introducing real wind and casting angles, casting relative to defined targets (instead of at them), and evaluating rods in the same environment and by the same criteria that anglers actually use and assess them. By using real-world distances and use cases for the casting course, the expertise of the casters was used to evaluate rods for scenarios that every angler, even a beginner, would expect to experience.
We didn’t ask them to do things that most casters can’t do. Instead, we put together a very straightforward and simple course so that we could compare the rods to one another within the actual world they were designed for. This is not a buying directive. These results aren’t etched in stone. It is not a declaration of winners and losers. It is a detailed snapshot of how a wide range of saltwater fly rods performed under real conditions, interpreted by casters who can consistently direct those rods to their intended application.
Your own preferences, casting style, fishing scenarios, and personal feel will always matter, and no review should ever replace time spent casting a rod yourself. This evaluation is meant to inform decisions, not make them. When it does come time to purchase, we hope this information helps narrow the field and ask better questions. And when that time comes, we hope you will choose Yellow Dog Flyfishing or our friends at The Angling Company.
Questions and Answers About the Yellow Dog Saltwater Invitational
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Why did we host this in Belize? Why not just do this on a football field or in a gym?
From the beginning, we made a deliberate decision to conduct this evaluation on the flats. Rods were cast from staked poling skiffs and, in the case of the bonefish course, while wading. Simply put, there has never been an evaluation of this scope conducted in the environment where saltwater fly rods are actually used.
On the flats, variables change. Wind is rarely consistent. Footing matters. Casting angles shift. You are managing line, leaders, flies, and body position while making presentations in real fishing situations.
By hosting the Saltwater Invitational on the flats of Belize, we were able to evaluate performance where it actually matters. Not in perfect conditions, but in the same elements anglers face when chasing bonefish, permit, and tarpon around the world.
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Why did we select elite casters and anglers?
Here’s a simple way to think about it. Imagine your truck starts making a noise you’ve never heard before. A warning light comes on. You pull into a mechanic shop and walk up to the counter. Two people are standing there. One has grease on their hands, looks like they have been doing this for decades, and you recognize them from the last time your truck needed real work. It is obvious they run the place. The other is friendly, attentive, and clearly learning, but they are taking notes and looking to the first person for guidance.
Who do you want diagnosing the problem? And more importantly, why?
That same logic applies here. Professional casters and anglers have spent thousands of hours refining their craft. They can feel subtle differences in recovery, tracking, load range, and efficiency that many anglers simply cannot yet articulate. That does not make the “average” caster less capable. It just means they are still developing those instincts.
Our goal was not to measure what feels good on a good day. It was to identify repeatable, meaningful performance differences between fly rods. To do that, we needed evaluators who could consistently push each rod to its intended limits and accurately describe what was happening along the way. That is why this evaluation relied on professional casters and anglers. Not to exclude anyone, but to ensure the data you are looking at is as clear, honest, and useful as possible.
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Why and how did we design our unique testing courses?
When anglers talk about fly rods, the conversation often drifts toward extremes. Longest cast. Fastest recovery. “Best” rod. But saltwater fly rods are not built for laboratories or indoor gyms. They are built for boats, wind, moving fish, imperfect footing, and split-second decisions.
That reality shaped the mindset behind how we designed this course and how we evaluate saltwater fly rods. The foundation of the courses is simple: every cast should represent something you would actually do on the bow of a skiff or wading the flats.
Rather than standing in one place and repeatedly throwing at a single fixed distance, the course is designed around three common shots anglers see every day:
• A quick, close shot at roughly 30 feet
• A medium presentation around 50 feet
• A longer cast at approximately 70 feetEach distance is fished, not just cast. Anglers are asked to imagine a fish moving left, then moving right, making the same cast twice but at slightly different angles. This subtle change reveals far more about how a rod behaves than throwing line at a static target ever could. In addition, casters are asked to pick up and re-present across the target at the medium distance. This simulates one of the most common scenarios in saltwater fishing: a fish changes direction, and you must adjust quickly without resetting everything.
Standing on the bow with three “fish” in front of you forces the same decisions you would make in real fishing situations. That’s intentional. All distances are measured from the angler, not from the boat’s centerline. This matters.
If you measure thirty feet straight ahead and then step laterally, that cast is no longer thirty feet. Geometry changes the shot. Instead, each distance is positioned where a fish would realistically appear relative to the angler’s stance and casting angle.
The boat itself is also positioned to replicate how guides actually set up shots on the flats. Wind direction, boat orientation, and casting shoulder are all factored in. We are not testing how far someone can cast with the wind at their back or how hard they can punch a line into a headwind. We are testing the most common and most likely shots anglers face every day.
This is about average scenarios in the truest sense of the word. Not easiest. Not hardest. Most realistic.
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How was the scoring system set up and tallied?
- Backhand casts at 1 and 2 accounted for the cumulative Short Distance score.
- Forward casts and water load casts at 3 and 4 accounted for the cumulative Medium Distance score.
- Forward casts to 5 and 6 accounted for the cumulative Long Distance score.
Each rod received three separate scores, short, medium, and long, each rated from 1 to 10 in 0.1 point increments. Those three scores were then combined to produce an overall score for the rod. With the exception of the on the water load cast at the medium distance target, every cast began from the same starting position, with no more than four feet of fly line extended beyond the rod tip.6.4 and below – Poor to very poor
6.5 - 7.0 – Functional but needs improvement
7.1 - 8 – Performs well and/or meets manufacturer’s goal
8.1 - 9 – Exceptional
9.1 – 9.9 – Rod assumed control
10 – Rod defied known laws of physics -
What fly lines, leaders, and flies were used?
Fly Line: For the Saltwater Invitational, our casting team agreed to run a single fly line through every rod. This allowed us to control yet another variable and ensure consistency across the evaluation. Fly lines absolutely change how a rod feels. Changing fly lines introduces too many variables. If a cast crashes, is that the rod or the line? If it feels great, is the line compensating for a weakness in the blank?
By keeping the line constant, casters develop familiarity with it quickly. Once the line disappears from their conscious thought, they begin to feel what the rod itself is doing. Any differences that emerge can be confidently attributed to the rod, not the system around it. The Balance Taper line was chosen intentionally. It is not designed to excel at one thing. It is designed to do everything well enough. It loads quickly, lands softly, shoots line when needed, and behaves predictably across distances.
In this context, the line should not be the star. It should be neutral.
Leader: Umpqua Linville Tactical Leader
Fly Pattern: Pato's Crab - Size 4
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How were these rods selected?
Yellow Dog Flyfishing carries a wide array of fly rods from top manufacturers. Every single brand we represent chose to participate — including Sage, Orvis, Scott, Winston, Hardy, Redington, Thomas & Thomas, G. Loomis, and Echo. This was one of the most diverse rod lineups featured in a saltwater rod performance-based review in angling history, and we’re incredibly grateful for their participation.
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How Did We Minimize Subjectivity?
We took every step to eliminate bias, bringing in elite casters with no brand affiliations.
- We let the casters design each course alongside Yellow Dog’s marketing and strategy teams.
- Casters were not allowed to discuss or share their opinions until after all scoring was complete. This format ensured that scoring was based on individual performance — not groupthink or preferences.
With all of that said, some level of bias is unavoidable, and we fully acknowledge that. Completely removing it would require testing unbranded blanks with no visual identifiers, a process that would be either extraordinarily time consuming, prohibitively expensive, or both. Two of our casters regularly compete with a one-piece Hardy Marksman Z in major saltwater fly fishing tournaments. They openly acknowledged that they know this rod exceptionally well, including its strengths, its limitations, and exactly why they choose to fish it. Rather than discrediting the evaluation, we believe that familiarity provides important context.If a rod earns a place in high level competitive fishing, it is almost certainly because it performs at a very high level. That reality does not invalidate the results. It helps explain them.
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Why were there no perfect scores?
Our Saltwater Invitational casting team aligned with the same scoring philosophy established during the 5 Weight Invitational by John Juracek, John Hudgens, and Whitney Gould. In that framework, a score of 10 would imply perfection and leave no room for improvement. Because even the highest performing fly rods can still be refined, scores in the 8 to 9 range were used to represent truly exceptional performance without suggesting a rod has reached its final form. -
Why didn’t we score rods based on aesthetics?
From the outset, we agreed that minimizing subjectivity was essential to ensure a fair and credible evaluation. While other shootout or rod review models have included points or consideration for aesthetics, we deliberately chose not to incorporate cosmetic scoring. Our casters felt that judging a rod based on appearance would be highly subjective — what one person sees as sleek or beautiful, another might not care for at all. A green or matte black finish may appeal to some, but that has no bearing on how the rod actually performs.
The Saltwater Invitational Casting Team
NATHANIEL LINVILLE - ANGLER, COMPETITOR, INNOVATOR
Nathaniel Linville is widely regarded as one of the most accomplished saltwater fly anglers of his generation. Based in Key West, Florida, he is the owner and operator of The Angling Company, a premier fly shop recognized for its technical expertise in casting, rigging, and saltwater fly fishing systems tailored to the challenging fisheries of the Florida Keys.
A committed Trustee of IGFA and chairman of the Rules Committee, Linville has built an exceptional competitive résumé. He is a past winner of the prestigious Gold Cup Tarpon Tournament, he has won the fly division of the Cuda Bowl four times, captured three Superfly titles, and recorded multiple victories in elite permit tournaments, including the March Merkin and Del Brown Permit Tournament.
Linville also holds four IGFA Tippet Class World Records, including the Men’s 6-pound Tippet Class World Record for tarpon (140.3 pounds, caught with Captains Steve and Chad Huff) and the Men’s 2-pound Tippet Class World Record for permit (16 pounds, with Captains John O’Hearn and Chad Huff).
Beyond competition and records, he has contributed meaningful innovation to the sport, including the development of the Cobranagle knot, now widely used in tarpon rigging. He also played a key role in launching the inaugural IGFA Permit Invitational Tournament. As an educator and advocate, Linville writes, teaches, and speaks regularly about fly casting, technical refinement, and fishery ethics. His influence continues to shape how anglers approach saltwater fly fishing, from competitive settings to real world flats scenarios. In Key West, he teaches students from around the world a system of fly casting that is efficient, effective, and easy to understand.
CAPTAIN IAN SLATER - TOURNAMENT ANGLER AND FLATS GUIDE
Ian Slater is a highly respected flats fishing guide and competitive angler based in the Florida Keys. Known for his calm, analytical approach on the water, Ian brings a disciplined, high performance mindset to both guiding and tournament fishing.
In 2024, he captured the prestigious Gold Cup Tarpon Tournament alongside Nathaniel Linville, cementing his place among the top competitors in the sport. A former collegiate and professional hockey player, Ian’s athletic background translates directly to his fishing style, marked by precision, adaptability, and composure under pressure.
As a guide, Ian is widely regarded for his ability to coach anglers through demanding tarpon, permit, and bonefish scenarios, helping them execute when it matters most. His combination of competitive success and real world flats experience makes him a trusted authority in high level saltwater fly fishing.
BRIAN O'KEEFE - ANGLER, PHOTOGRAPHER, AND WORLD TRAVELER
Brian O’Keefe is one of the most influential figures in modern fly fishing, with a career that spans more than four decades and reaches across the globe. He learned to fly fish at a young age from his grandfather on the rivers around Missoula, Montana, and went on to build a life centered on exploring, documenting, and understanding the world’s great fisheries.
Brian’s angling experience is vast, with extensive time spent guiding and fishing throughout Alaska, the Pacific Northwest, the Bahamas, Belize, Patagonia, Chile, New Zealand, Australia, Africa, and beyond. Few anglers have logged as many days on the water across such a wide range of environments, giving him an unmatched perspective on fish behavior, conditions, and the gear required to succeed.
He is equally renowned for his work behind the camera. As one of fly fishing’s most respected photographers, Brian has helped define how the sport is visually documented, favoring authentic, in-the-moment storytelling over staged imagery. His photographs have shaped the way anglers see both the fish and the places they pursue them.
Deflection Charts
The Overall Cumulative 9-Weight Fly Rod Rankings
|
FLY RODS |
SHORT |
MEDIUM |
LONG |
COMBINED |
|
1. Orvis Helios D (73.4/90) |
23.1 |
24.9 |
25.4 |
73.4 |
|
2. Hardy Marksman Z (72.5/90) |
22.2 |
25 |
25.3 |
72.5 |
|
3. G. Loomis NRX+ S (71.2/90) |
22.6 |
24 |
24.6 |
71.2 |
|
4. Scott Sector (71.1/90) |
22.7 |
23.8 |
24.6 |
71.1 |
|
5. G. Loomis Asquith II (70.4/90) |
21.9 |
23.7 |
24.8 |
70.4 |
|
6. Sage Power R8 (70.3/90) |
21.9 |
23.3 |
25.1 |
70.3 |
|
7. Sage Salt R8 (69.6/90) |
22.2 |
23.7 |
23.7 |
69.6 |
|
8. Orvis Recon (68/90) |
21.7 |
23 |
23.3 |
68 |
|
9. G. Loomis IMX Pro V2S (67.3/90) |
22.1 |
23.1 |
24.2 |
69.2 |
|
22.2 |
22.6 |
22.4 |
67.4 |
|
|
11. Sage Maverick (67/90) |
21.3 |
22.7 |
23 |
67 |
|
12. Winston Air 2 Max (66.8/90) |
21 |
22.4 |
23.4 |
66.8 |
|
13. T&T Sextant (66.5/90) |
21.3 |
22.3 |
22.9 |
66.5 |
|
14. Echo Boost Blue (66.2/90) |
21 |
22.4 | 22.8 | 66.2 |
|
15. Scott Wave (65.3/90) |
21 |
22 |
22.3 |
65.3 |
|
15. T&T Exocett 88 (65.3/90) |
21.2 |
22.1 |
22 |
65.3 |
|
15. Sage R8 Core (65.3/90) |
21.2 |
22.4 |
21.7 |
65.3 |
|
16. T&T Zone (64.3/90) |
21.4 |
21.5 |
21.4 |
64.3 |
9-Weight Economical Rods Cumulative Rankings
|
TOP ECONOMICAL RODS |
SHORT |
MEDIUM |
LONG |
COMBINED |
|
1. Orvis Recon (68/90) |
21.7 |
23 |
23.3 |
68 |
|
2. G. Loomis IMX PRO V2S (67.3/90) |
21.1 |
23.2 |
23 |
67.3 |
|
3. Redington Predator Salt (67.2/90) |
22.2 |
22.6 |
22.4 |
67.2 |
|
4. Sage Maverick (67/90) |
21.3 |
22.7 |
23 |
67 |
|
5. Echo Boost Blue (66.2/90) |
21 |
22.4 |
22.8 |
66.2 |
|
6. Scott Wave (65.3/90) |
21 |
22 |
22.3 |
65.3 |
|
7. T&T Zone (64.3/90) |
21.4 |
21.5 |
21.4 |
64.3 |
Top Performing 9-Weight Fly Rods by Distance
|
TOP RODS AT DISTANCE |
|
Short 30’ - Orvis Helios D (23.1/30), Scott Sector (22.7/30), G. Loomis NRX+S (22.6/30) |
|
Medium 40’-50’ - Hardy Marksman Z (25/30), Orvis Helios D (24.9/30), G. Loomis NRX+S (24/30) |
|
Long 60’-70’ - Orvis Helios D (25.4/30), Hardy Marksman Z (25.3/30), Sage Power R8 (25.1/30) |
Standard Deviation Scoring
Standard deviation measures how much a rod’s scores varied across distances (cumulative short, medium, and long scoring).
Low number equals the rod behaved similarly everywhere. High number equals the rod behaved very differently depending on distance. It is NOT necessarily an indication of a rod’s overall performance, but merely underlines how a rod performs across all three categories.
Low standard deviation (0.2–0.6 range): These rods are highly consistent. They do roughly the same thing at short, medium, and long distances. These rods rarely surprise you. That can be a feature or a limitation.
Mid-range deviation (0.7–1.1 range): These rods begin to show distance-based personality. These rods are situationally excellent but less universal.
High deviation (1.3+ range): While these rods may perform exceptionally across distances, they truly shine at specific distances
|
Fly Rods |
Std. Dev |
| Thomas & Thomas Zone | 0.058 |
| Redington Predator Salt | 0.2 |
| T&T Exocett 88 | 0.493 |
| Sage R8 Core | 0.603 |
| Scott Wave | 0.681 |
| T&T Sextant | 0.808 |
| Orvis Recon | 0.85 |
| Sage Salt R8 | 0.866 |
| Sage Maverick | 0.907 |
| Echo Boost Blue | 0.945 |
| Scott Sector | 0.954 |
| G. Loomis NRX+ S | 1.026 |
| G. Loomis IMX-Pro V2S | 1.159 |
| Winston Air 2 Max | 1.206 |
| Orvis Helios D | 1.21 |
| G. Loomis Asquith II | 1.464 |
| Sage Power R8 | 1.604 |
| Hardy Marksman Z | 1.71 |
Echo Fly Rods
Echo Boost Blue 9' 9-Weight | $399.99
From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
The Boost Blue is built for anglers with an aggressive casting stroke to achieve maximum line speed.
From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?
Airflo Bruce Chard Lines or the Airflo Bonefish Lines
Caster Scores:
PERMIT COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 66.2/90
|
Echo Boost Blue |
Caster 1 |
Caster 2 |
Caster 3 |
Avg. |
Combined |
|
|
Short |
6.9 |
6 |
8.1 |
7 |
21 |
|
|
Medium |
7.3 |
7 |
8.1 |
7.46 |
22.4 |
|
|
Long |
7.2 |
7.5 |
8.1 |
7.6 |
22.8 |
|
|
Total |
21.4 |
20.5 |
24.3 |
22.06 |
66.2 |
- This rod is above average because of its consistency. The bottom of the cork on the rod is thin, and the hardware is light/has feel. This is a good all-around rod – it can do the same things as the Asquith, but has to work a little harder.
- Pretty good at distance. Not clunky in close. 70’ and beyond was very nice, but you need to apply power. If you’re an angler who knows how and when to apply power, this is a great rod.
- Hard to call this rod a ‘pricepoint’ fly rod performance wise. Fast rod with balance. The cork feels nice. It’s OK at 30’ range, you need to create line speed to feather the fly in. Very accurate and responsive at medium target – feels like an extension of my arm. Felt laggy at 70’, but still impressed for a pricepoint rod.
Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The Echo Boost Blue 9wt is a fast, consistent rod that performs well across a wide range of fishing situations and feels more refined than most rods in its price category. The hardware is light, the cork is comfortable, and the overall balance gives the rod good feel in hand. From the first few casts it’s clear that this rod was designed to be an all around saltwater tool that can handle a variety of distances and conditions.
At closer ranges around 30 feet the rod performs fine, though it benefits from the caster actively creating line speed to help feather the fly into the target. Where the Boost Blue really stands out is in the mid range. At those distances it feels accurate, responsive, and controlled, often casting with the kind of confidence and connection that makes the rod feel like an extension of your arm.
At longer distances around 70 feet and beyond the rod remains capable, but it requires the angler to apply power to fully unlock its performance. It may feel slightly laggy compared to premium rods, yet it still delivers impressive distance and control. For anglers who understand when and how to push a rod, the Echo Boost Blue 9wt offers strong all around performance and exceptional value for the price.
G. Loomis Fly Rods
G. Loomis Asquith (Gen II) 9' 9-Weight | $1,635.00
From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
This is our concept car product in the fly arena. All-new G. Loomis offering using Spiral X core technology, still rolled in Kumamota, Japan. The product performs with enhanced balance for a feeling of weightlessness and effortless casting. New reel seat for improved ergonomic and versatility for hold positions in every scenario.
From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?
Caster Scores:
PERMIT COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 70.4/90
|
G. Loomis Asquith II |
Caster 1 |
Caster 2 |
Caster 3 |
Avg. |
Combined |
|
|
Short |
7.5 |
6.3 |
8.1 |
7.3 |
21.9 |
|
|
Medium |
8 |
7.4 |
8.3 |
7.9 |
23.7 |
|
|
Long |
8.5 |
8 |
8.3 |
8.26 |
24.8 |
|
|
Total |
24 |
21.7 |
24.7 |
23.46 |
70.4 |
Caster Notes:
- The reel seat feels a little slick/wet with metal at the back end reel seat. The rod is super light and crisp. Still I don’t believe it is very forgiving and you can’t get away with much; however, it is more forgiving than the 11-weight.
- Interesting reel seat design. Very nice looking taper on the cork. Smooth in close, sensational at 50’ (medium). Where this rod really shines is at 70’ (long). The lack of wells grip on the bottom is causing my hand to slip when going out to further targets.
- An arrow! It’s a faster rod, but you can feel it load, even past the tip. Very responsive at medium target. There is not a lot of play in the rod tip when making a correction.
Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The Asquith (Gen II) 9wt is an exceptionally light and crisp rod that clearly sits at the high end of performance. The blank feels extremely responsive, loading smoothly while still maintaining a very fast recovery. While it is not especially forgiving and requires good timing from the caster, it does reward solid technique with excellent control and feedback throughout the cast.
At closer distances the rod remains smooth and composed, but it really begins to stand out in the mid range around 50 feet where accuracy and responsiveness become exceptional. The rod tracks extremely well and feels incredibly precise, with very little tip wobble when making adjustments or corrections. The blank loads cleanly and you can feel that load travel well down the rod, giving it a powerful yet controlled casting stroke.
Where the Asquith II 9wt truly shines is at longer distances around 70 feet and beyond. This rod feels like an arrow when pushed, delivering tight loops and outstanding line speed. The only minor drawback noted was the reel seat and lower grip design. The metal at the back of the reel seat can feel slick or wet, and the lack of a deeper wells grip at the bottom can allow the hand to slip slightly when applying power on longer casts. Even with those small critiques, the rod delivers elite long range performance and remarkable precision.
G. Loomis IMX-PRO V2S 9' 9-Weight | $595.00
From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
This rod is targeted at the Southeast, Northeast, and Southwest salt angler. This includes traveling angler consumers, guides, and fly shop employees. Enhanced durability and rod action for windy days that prioritize technique. Comparable in performance to Scott Tidal or Sage Motive.
From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?
Caster Scores:
PERMIT COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 67.3/90
|
G. Loomis IMX-Pro V2S |
Caster 1 |
Caster 2 |
Caster 3 |
Avg. |
Combined |
|
|
Short |
6.8 |
6.4 |
7.9 |
7.03 |
21.1 |
|
|
Medium |
7.2 |
7.9 |
8.1 |
7.73 |
23.2 |
|
|
Long |
7 |
8.1 |
7.9 |
7.66 |
23 |
|
|
Total |
21 |
22.4 |
23.9 |
22.4 |
67.3 |
Caster Notes:
- The fighting butt on this rod is a little small, but I do like the cork and it is light in hand. The rod is very intuitive at 50’ targets (medium), but when I push out to 70’ (long)I feel like there is something missing.
- Nice length on the cork and fits nice in your hand. Like a lot of the rods, a little clunky in close, but improves with 20’ of line in the air. Buttery smooth at 50’ (medium).
- Light in hand. The fighting butt is a little on the small side, but I do enjoy the cork and feel in hand. You can feel this rod load in the tip at the 30’ (short) range – felt accurate. The rod really performs well at the 50’ range. I feel like it manages the power you’re putting into it. I wouldn’t say it is as accurate at 70’ (long) and a little more timing needed to push the cast further.
Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The G. Loomis IMX PRO V2S 9wt is a light, comfortable rod that feels intuitive and easy to cast, particularly in the distances where most saltwater fishing actually happens. The cork grip is well shaped and fits nicely in the hand, and the overall balance makes the rod feel light and responsive throughout the casting stroke. While the fighting butt is slightly on the small side, the cork quality and grip design still provide a confident feel in hand.
At closer distances around 30 feet, the rod loads well into the tip and feels accurate, though like many rods in this category it can feel slightly clunky with very little line outside the tip. Once about 20 feet of line is in the air, the rod begins to smooth out and becomes much more predictable. The rod responds well to the power being applied and maintains a smooth casting rhythm.
The rod really shines in the mid range around 50 feet, where it feels buttery smooth and very intuitive. In this range it manages power well and delivers consistent, accurate casts. When pushed to longer distances around 70 feet, it remains capable but feels like it lacks a bit of reserve power compared to faster rods. Extending the cast requires more precise timing from the angler and accuracy can drop slightly as the rod is pushed harder.
G. Loomis NRX+S 9' 9-Weight | $990.00
From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
Significant upgrade to it’s predecessor, the NRX. This is lighter weight for less fatigue on long days. These blanks offer peak performance in the market. This is targeted at the die hard angler.
From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?
Caster Scores:
PERMIT COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 71.2/90
|
G. Loomis NRX+ S |
Caster 1 |
Caster 2 |
Caster 3 |
Avg. |
Combined |
|
|
Short |
7.1 |
7.3 |
8.2 |
7.53 |
22.6 |
|
|
Medium |
7.5 |
8.3 |
8.2 |
8 |
24 |
|
|
Long |
7.8 |
8.5 |
8.3 |
8.2 |
24.6 |
|
|
Total |
22.4 |
24.1 |
24.7 |
23.73 |
71.2 |
Caster Notes:
- The rod is light in hand, but a lot of weight in the rod’s guides. I feel like the NRX+ S does the job for me – very easy to cast. It’s a little easier out at 70’ once you get more line in the air. Very consistent across the board.
- Tracks very clean. Makes consistent loops – the same with every cast. This rod was effortless for me to figure out. Does phenomenal out at 70’ distance and beyond.
Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The G. Loomis NRX+ S 9wt is a light rod in hand that casts smoothly and feels very easy to pick up and fish with. While the blank itself feels light, one caster noted there is noticeable weight in the guides which gives the rod a slightly different balance. Despite that, it delivers a very comfortable and controlled casting feel.
The rod tracks extremely clean and produces consistent loops from cast to cast. Timing feels natural and the rod responds well throughout the casting stroke, making it easy to maintain accuracy and repeatability.
As more line is carried in the air, the rod continues to perform even better. At 70 feet and beyond it really shines, producing tight loops and strong line control while still feeling smooth and effortless to cast.
There was one minor critique regarding cork configuration, but overall build quality and performance were highly regarded.
Hardy Fly Rods
Hardy Marksman Z 9' 9-Weight | $1,050.00
From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
All Marksman Z rods were built on Sintrix blank, which gives incredible strength ot weight ratio and low in-hand weight. Featuring a powerful butt section but with a lighter, slightly easier flexing tip section that allows you to make a difficult shot.
From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?
Caster Scores:
PERMIT COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 72.5/90
|
Hardy Marksman Z |
Caster 1 |
Caster 2 |
Caster 3 |
Avg. |
Combined |
|
|
Short |
7.4 |
6.5 |
8.3 |
7.4 |
22.2 |
|
|
Medium |
8.6 |
7.9 |
8.5 |
8.33 |
25 |
|
|
Long |
8.7 |
8.2 |
8.4 |
8.43 |
25.3 |
|
|
Total |
24.7 |
22.6 |
25.2 |
24.16 |
72.5 |
Caster Notes:
- I like the cork and fighting butt of this rod. It’s a very light blank and added hardware. I don’t really need to think about casting with the Marksman Z. What I put in, I get right back out.
- Not clunky in close like many of the others, most likely due to lighter tip. Incredibly easy to cast at 50’ (medium). Great loop shape carrying a lot of line. Intuitive casting.
- Recoil guides are a great way of reducing weight on a rod. Love it. Very similar to the Asquith. You can feel the rod load past the tip. You can apply the power to that 50’ (medium) target where we can force it in, but softly. It excels at distance (long).. Very impressed.
Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The Hardy Marksman Z 9wt is a very light rod with excellent balance, helped by its light blank and minimal hardware. The cork and fighting butt are well designed and comfortable in hand, giving the rod a confident feel. Recoil guides help reduce overall weight and contribute to the rod’s quick, responsive action.
Unlike many rods in this category, it doesn’t feel clunky in close, likely due to the lighter tip. The rod casts smoothly and responds directly to the power applied, giving the caster a strong sense of connection throughout the stroke. At around 50 feet it becomes especially impressive, producing clean loop shapes and carrying line effortlessly while allowing both power and touch when needed.
The rod also performs exceptionally well at longer distances. You can clearly feel the rod load beyond the tip, allowing you to apply power with confidence when pushing casts further. The Marksman Z delivers strong line speed and control at distance while maintaining the smooth, responsive feel that makes it enjoyable to cast.
Orvis Fly Rods
Orvis Helios D 9' 9-Weight | $1,198.00
From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
This is arguably Orvis’ most revered permit rod and is widely recognized for its all-around combination of power, casting ease, accuracy, and lightweight comfort. It loves the SA Infinity Salt and Grand Slam tapers and is an easy choice for anglers looking for a versatile, fun, high-performance rod for permit, snook, redfish, smallish tarpon, barracuda, jacks, and cobia.
From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?
Caster Scores:
PERMIT COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 73.4/90
|
Orvis Helios D |
Caster 1 |
Caster 2 |
Caster 3 |
Avg. |
Combined |
|
|
Short |
7.3 |
7.4 |
8.4 |
7.7 |
23.1 |
|
|
Medium |
7.9 |
8.4 |
8.6 |
8.3 |
24.9 |
|
|
Long |
8.3 |
8.6 |
8.5 |
8.46 |
25.4 |
|
|
Total |
23.5 |
24.4 |
25.5 |
24.46 |
73.4 |
Caster Notes:
- This is the right size fighting butt on this rod – way better than the Orvis H2. This is a great all-around fly rod and it makes the 50’ (medium) and the 70’ (long) targets feel short.
- More flex than almost any 9-weight. Nice loop, even with short shots – really, really good short. This is a “wow” rod. Does everything I wanted it to. This was my favorite rod of the group 2 cycle.
- I can feel this really load down into the butt of the rod. Very accurate, not tippy, and super responsive. I can keep the slow cadence and still reach out to the medium target. Less effort is required. I never felt like I needed to get aggressive with this rod. You can overpower it, but it doesn’t need it. I value from a permit fishing standpoint these 70’ shots, and this rod does it well.
Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The Orvis Helios D 9wt finished with the highest cumulative score in the 9wt permit course and quickly stood out as one of the most complete rods in the group. The fighting butt is the right size and a noticeable improvement over earlier designs, giving the rod a balanced, confident feel in hand. From the first few casts it becomes clear this is a rod capable of handling every distance required for permit fishing.
The rod has more flex than many other 9 weights in the test, allowing it to load smoothly and deeply into the butt section. It produces clean loops even on short shots and performs exceptionally well at close range, which is often overlooked in faster rods. The rod feels very accurate and responsive without being overly stiff or tip driven.
At medium and long distances it continues to impress, making 50 foot and even 70 foot shots feel shorter and easier than expected. The rod responds well to a smooth, slower cadence and doesn’t require aggressive power to reach further targets. It handles distance comfortably and consistently, delivering the kind of performance that makes it especially well suited for permit fishing situations.
Orvis Recon 9' 9-Weight | $698.00
From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
A smooth casting, general purpose rod that excels with true-to-weight and slightly over-weight lines. Orvis Pro Saltwater Tropic and SA Bonefish lines are ideal true-to-weight matchups for light-duty flats scenarios like bonefish. Can also handle SA Grand Slam for shorter casts and bigger flies targeting snook, reds, bass.
From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?
Caster Scores:
PERMIT COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 68/90
|
Orvis Recon |
Caster 1 |
Caster 2 |
Caster 3 |
Avg. |
Combined |
|
|
Short |
7.4 |
6.6 |
7.7 |
7.23 |
21.7 |
|
|
Medium |
7.8 |
7.6 |
7.6 |
7.66 |
23 |
|
|
Long |
7.5 |
8.1 |
7.7 |
7.76 |
23.3 |
|
|
Total |
22.7 |
22.3 |
23 |
22.66 |
68 |
Caster Notes:
- The rod feels average and not trying to be one thing. Not sure I love it, but I like it. Solid cork/fighting butt, the rod isn’t too heavy, but a little clunky at 40’-50’ distance (medium).
- Quite nice short. Very sweet at 40-50’ targets (medium). As fun to fish as the Helios D. Takes moderate effort to cast at distance versus a stiffer rod that requires a bit more power. Great performance for a mid-priced rod.
- Easy and responsive at 30’ (short). I can feel the rod load a little past the rod tip. The rod is doing what I want it to do. I was waiting for it to wobble along the way – but no! Great at 40’-50’ (medium). Rod really shines at that distance. When you begin casting to the 70’ (long) target, it begins to falter slightly.
Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The Orvis Recon 9wt is a well balanced rod that doesn’t try to be overly specialized, instead offering solid performance across a range of distances. The cork and fighting butt are well done, and the rod feels comfortable and reasonably light in hand. While it may not immediately stand out compared to some of the more specialized rods in the group, it delivers dependable performance and a pleasant casting feel.
At shorter distances around 30 feet the rod feels easy and responsive, loading slightly past the tip and providing good control for close shots. It becomes especially enjoyable in the 40 to 50 foot range, where the rod really begins to shine. At these medium distances it feels smooth and accurate, producing consistent loops and making it a very fun rod to fish.
As casts extend toward 70 feet, the rod begins to show its limits slightly. It still performs, but it requires a bit more effort and timing compared to stiffer rods designed to generate greater line speed. In the mid range where many permit shots occur, the Recon delivers strong performance and a smooth, controlled feel.
Redington Fly Rods
Redington Predator Salt 9' 9-Weight | $399.95
From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
The Redington Predator Salt is designed to be a resourceful rod for a variety of saltwater scenarios. Whether casting from the beach, walking a flat, or working from a boat, saltwater environments present constant challenges. On any given day, anglers face strong winds, long casts, or the need for flawless presentation in glass-calm conditions. Ever-changing situations demand a rod that adapts instinctively. This is where the Predator Salt is designed to excel. The potent, fast action delivers line speed with power and accuracy. Our flagship Nano Resin Graphite Technology elevates durability, leverage, and fish-fighting performance without sacrificing weight. From throwing heavy lines to stripers in the surf to making precise casts at selective tailing fish, the Predator Salt is designed to rise to any challenge. With that said, mid-range distances are where the rod is really designed to shine. From there, it can be stretched for long-range shots or pulled in close when needed.
From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?
Caster Scores:
PERMIT COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 67.2/90
|
Redington Predator Salt |
Caster 1 |
Caster 2 |
Caster 3 |
Avg. |
Combined |
|
|
Short |
7.1 |
7 |
8.1 |
7.4 |
22.2 |
|
|
Medium |
6.9 |
7.6 |
8.1 |
7.53 |
22.6 |
|
|
Long |
6.8 |
7.5 |
8.1 |
7.46 |
22.4 |
|
|
Total |
20.8 |
22.1 |
24.3 |
22.4 |
67.2 |
Caster Notes:
- It feels like an ‘all-around’ rod and relatively the same to the Echo Boost Blue. I think this rod really shines from that medium target down. I’m not crazy about it using it far out at the longer targets at 70’.
- Really nice short and does well at medium target. Not sure if it is beefy enough as a dedicated permit rod, but better as an all arounder. Very good entry level salt rod.
- Very responsive rod at 30’ (short). I’m feeling the rod load in the upper ⅓ of the rod. Didn’t have to overwork it in close. Felt very accurate at the 50’ (medium) target. Had to pull back a little feel entry of the fly. Clunky or dead zone somewhere between 60’-70’ . . . feeling a wobble.
Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The Redington Predator Salt 9wt has the feel of a true all around saltwater rod and shares some similarities with rods like the Echo Boost Blue. It is well suited for a variety of fishing situations and offers solid performance for anglers looking for a capable saltwater setup without stepping into the premium price range.
At shorter distances around 30 feet the rod is very responsive, loading in the upper third of the blank and delivering accurate casts without needing to be overworked. It performs especially well at the 50 foot range, where the rod feels controlled and predictable, allowing the caster to place the fly accurately with moderate effort.
As casts extend further, the rod begins to show its limitations. Somewhere in the 60 to 70 foot range a slight dead zone becomes noticeable and the rod can feel a bit clunky or wobbly when pushed harder. Because of this, it feels more comfortable handling close to medium range shots rather than consistently targeting longer distance presentations.
Sage Fly Rods
Sage Maverick 9' 9-Weight | $675.00
From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
This 9 is designed to handle the rigors of saltwater fishing across a breadth of species while also being a smooth, easy casting rod.
From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?
Caster Scores:
PERMIT COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 67/90
|
Sage Maverick |
Caster 1 |
Caster 2 |
Caster 3 |
Avg. |
Combined |
|
|
Short |
6.9 |
6.5 |
7.9 |
7.1 |
21.3 |
|
|
Medium |
7.5 |
7.4 |
7.8 |
7.56 |
22.7 |
|
|
Long |
7.3 |
8 |
7.7 |
7.66 |
23 |
|
|
Total |
21.7 |
21.9 |
23.4 |
22.33 |
67 |
Caster Notes:
- It is a light rod with a heavy set of guides. So far casting it, I feel like there is a lack of recovery. It does fine close in, but when I begin to push it out to 50’ (medium) and 70’ (long) there is a dead spot and I need to change what I’m doing to accommodate the rod.
- Pretty good flex into the middle and deep flex with more line. Perfectly comfortable making short casts. All skill levels can appreciate this.
- A bit of clunkiness or a dead spot. Having to push rod at corrections. Good bend of the rod at 30’ (short). I can feel the rod bend at the butt. I think the medium target is where this rod wants to perform. Still comfortable at 70’ (long), but medium is where it shines. It’s a nice rod at the pricepoint.
Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The Sage Maverick 9wt is a light rod with a deeper flex profile, though the heavier guides give it a slightly different balance in hand. The rod bends nicely into the middle section and even into the butt when casting shorter distances, giving it a comfortable and approachable feel. It is especially friendly for a wide range of skill levels and feels perfectly comfortable making short shots.
At around 30 feet the rod loads easily and produces a smooth bend through the blank. It performs well in this closer range and continues to feel comfortable as you move into the medium distance zone. Around 50 feet the rod begins to show where it prefers to operate, delivering solid performance and a consistent casting feel.
As casts extend further, a slight dead spot can become noticeable and the rod requires some adjustment from the caster to maintain timing and control. While it can still reach the longer targets around 70 feet, it feels most comfortable in the medium range where the rod loads cleanly and responds well to the caster’s input.
Sage Power R8 9' 9-Weight | $1,100.00
From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
Designed for expert anglers who want a tool that can help them reach as far as possible. This 9 is designed for fishing at long range with high line speeds. If you want a rod that won’t hold you back at long distance this is it. Or put a slightly heavier line on and get all the benefits of a “nine and a half” weight rod.
From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?
Caster Scores:
PERMIT COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 70.3/90
|
Sage Power R8 |
Caster 1 |
Caster 2 |
Caster 3 |
Avg. |
Combined |
|
|
Short |
7.3 |
6.8 |
7.8 |
7.3 |
21.9 |
|
|
Medium |
7.8 |
7.4 |
8.1 |
7.76 |
23.3 |
|
|
Long |
8.4 |
8.3 |
8.4 |
8.36 |
25.1 |
|
|
Total |
23.5 |
22.5 |
24.3 |
23.6 |
70.3 |
Caster Notes:
- In close, I feel like I have to do everything correctly – I can’t feel the rod at all. It really begins working out at 50’ (medium) and truly begins to shine out at 70’ (long) and beyond. Exactly what they said.
- Easy to get from short to long very fast. As you carry more line, need to increase power to the rod to load deeper. It is pretty stiff, but better in close than I expected. Easy to control at 30’ (short). Smooth, straight-line loops at distance. In favorable wind conditions, it will pick up 60’ of line with leader and crab – not easy, but it can be done.
- To be able to navigate a 30’ shot for a rod designed for power, it was easy. The power is there, but not overwhelming – not a meathead of a rod. Very impressed at the 40’-50’ (medium) range. Great improvement, in my opinion, from the Sage Igniter. This thing comes alive at 70’ and further – all gas, no breaks.
Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The Sage R8 Core Power 9wt is built for distance and power, and that character becomes apparent as the casting distance increases. In close it can feel difficult to sense the rod loading, requiring the caster to stay precise with timing and technique. Despite its powerful design, it remains manageable at shorter distances and handles 30 foot shots better than expected.
As more line is carried in the air, the rod begins to come into its element. Around the 40 to 50 foot range the rod starts to feel much more alive, responding well as additional power is applied and loading deeper into the blank. The rod transitions quickly from short shots to longer casts and maintains strong line control throughout the casting stroke.
Where the rod truly shines is at longer distances around 70 feet and beyond. With more line outside the tip, the rod produces smooth, straight line loops and delivers impressive line speed. It is capable of picking up significant amounts of line, even with a leader and crab fly, and once pushed into that longer range it feels powerful, controlled, and fully in its element.
Sage R8 Core 9' 9-Weight | $1,100.00
From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
This is the lightweight version of a 9wt and the least powerful of our 9wts. Again a little more of a tip flex: easy to load but less control over bigger flies than some of our other 9’s.
From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?
Caster Scores:
PERMIT COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 65.3/90
|
Sage R8 Core |
Caster 1 |
Caster 2 |
Caster 3 |
Avg. |
Combined |
|
|
Short |
6.5 |
6.9 |
7.8 |
7.06 |
21.2 |
|
|
Medium |
6.9 |
7.4 |
8.1 |
7.46 |
22.4 |
|
|
Long |
6.7 |
7 |
8 |
7.23 |
21.7 |
|
|
Total |
20.1 |
21.3 |
23.9 |
21.76 |
65.3 |
Caster Notes:
- Heavier hardware on the blank. I feel like what I put into the rod, I am not getting out of it. The rod does its job at 50’ (medium) and past that at longer distances I feel a lack of recovery.
- Light rod, feels like an 8-weight. Short casts are very pleasant. I thought it was relatively smooth out at 50’ (medium). Takes a little longer to get going, especially at 70’ (long). Will fish fine, but takes more work.
Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The Sage R8 Core 9wt has a light feel overall, though the hardware on the blank adds a bit of noticeable weight. In hand it almost feels closer to an 8 weight, giving the rod a lighter overall impression. At shorter distances it performs well, making pleasant and comfortable casts without much effort.
At around 50 feet the rod settles into a smooth rhythm and does its job effectively. The rod handles medium range shots well and produces consistent casts once it gets moving. There is a sense that the rod needs a little time to build momentum before it begins to perform at its best.
As casts extend toward longer distances, the rod requires more effort from the caster and can feel like it lacks some recovery. While it is still capable of reaching those targets, it takes more work to push the rod further compared to some of the faster rods in the group.
Sage Salt R8 9' 9-Weight | $1,150.00
From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
A nine gets called into duty for a lot of different species: Permit, big redfish, snook, stripers, tailing species across the globe, and tons more. A common theme amongst 9wts is the need to throw bigger and/or heavier flies. This rod is designed to handle a heavier load if need be (think sz medium lead eyes or heavier shooting head line) with great control from 30- 70ft. Like the 8, this rod design keeps in mind that people will use a shooting head on it, although not prioritizing that application. Thick walls for good strength and durability.
From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?
Caster Scores:
PERMIT COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 69.6/90
|
Sage Salt R8 |
Caster 1 |
Caster 2 |
Caster 3 |
Avg. |
Combined |
|
|
Short |
7.2 |
7 |
8 |
7.4 |
22.2 |
|
|
Medium |
7.8 |
7.7 |
8.2 |
7.9 |
23.7 |
|
|
Long |
7.6 |
7.9 |
8.2 |
7.9 |
23.7 |
|
|
Total |
22.6 |
22.6 |
24.4 |
23.2 |
69.6 |
Caster Notes:
- Great cork and fighting butt and the rod is light in hand. I feel like the 9wt fits my casting stroke better than the 11-weight Salt R8. I feel like I can ‘open up’ more with this fly rod.
- Pleasant in close with great tip flex. Really likes carrying line, especially at 70’ (long). Smooth! The grip is not too long, very comfortable in hand. Durable, rubber reinforced butt is nice.
- The rod loaded well at 30’ (short), but felt more tippy. Still accurate. A little more feel would be nice. The rod is very thigh, fast, a lot of ‘pop’ to it. Not getting a lot of feedback from it at the medium target. Good speed, good power, just no feedback.
Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The Sage Salt R8 9wt is a light, fast rod with excellent fit and finish, highlighted by a comfortable cork grip and a durable, rubber reinforced fighting butt. The rod feels well balanced in hand and pairs nicely with an aggressive casting stroke. Compared to the heavier Salt R8 models, this 9 weight feels easier to open up and push when needed.
At shorter distances around 30 feet the rod loads well and produces accurate casts, though it can feel a bit tippy and doesn’t provide a great deal of feedback. The tip flex makes it pleasant enough in close, and the grip length is comfortable without feeling oversized in hand.
As more line is carried in the air the rod begins to show its strengths. It generates excellent line speed and has a lot of pop through the casting stroke. While feedback remains somewhat limited around the medium distance, the rod really likes carrying line and performs smoothly when pushed out toward longer distances around 70 feet.
Scott Fly Rods
Scott Sector 9' 9-Weight | $1,095.00
From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
If Permit are your main quarry, the Scott Sector 909 should be at the top of your list for consideration. The Carbon Web Technology that is new to the Sector family of rods adds stability and power to allow for accurate line pick-up and delivery while minimizing false-casts. If you’ve every stalked Permit at 50’ and watched them quickly move to 80’, then you will really appreciate what the new technology brings to your arsenal. A great all-around fly rod as well, the Sector 909 is a versatile for use around the world and suitable for casters of all skill levels.
From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?
Caster Scores:
PERMIT COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 71.1/90
|
Scott Sector |
Caster 1 |
Caster 2 |
Caster 3 |
Avg. |
Combined |
|
|
Small |
7.5 |
7 |
8.2 |
7.56 |
22.7 |
|
|
Medium |
8 |
7.7 |
8.1 |
7.93 |
23.8 |
|
|
Long |
8.3 |
8 |
8.3 |
8.2 |
24.6 |
|
|
Total |
23.8 |
22.7 |
24.6 |
23.7 |
71.1 |
- The cork and the fighting butt are the right size. There isn’t a lot of ‘weight’ on the top three sections. The rod is more intuitive at distance, but is mostly consistent all the way through the course.
- Perfect full wells grip. Pleasing on the eye. Very smooth casting fly rod. Getting plenty of tip flex in close. The distance cast feels the best. Functional taper design for pleasant casting.
- The rod has great feel in hand at 30’ (short). One of the nicest rods I’ve casted close in. This 50’ (medium) target is where this rod is going to shine and it still feels great going out to 70’ (long). Very comfortable, easy, and forgiving. Great for novice or expert anglers.
Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The Scott Sector 9wt features excellent fit and finish with a well sized cork grip and fighting butt that feel comfortable and balanced in hand. There is very little weight in the upper sections of the rod, which contributes to a light, responsive feel. The full wells grip is well shaped and the overall design is both functional and visually appealing.
At shorter distances around 30 feet the rod performs exceptionally well compared to the majority of rods in the group. It has excellent feel in close, loads easily with noticeable tip flex, and delivers smooth, controlled casts with very little effort. The rod feels connected and responsive at these shorter shots, making it one of the better performers in this range.
The rod continues to shine in the mid range around 50 feet, where the taper produces smooth, consistent loops and effortless casting. It remains comfortable and controlled when pushed to 70 feet, maintaining its smooth feel and consistency throughout the course. The forgiving nature of the rod makes it approachable for novice casters while still providing the control and performance experienced anglers expect.
Scott Wave 9' 9-Weight | $695.00
From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
Wave rods bring together high line speed, exceptional loop control, and point-it-and-it goes-there accuracy. They feel light and lively in hand and respond intuitively to input from the angler.
From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?
Caster Scores:
PERMIT COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 65.3/90
|
Scott Wave |
Caster 1 |
Caster 2 |
Caster 3 |
Avg. |
Combined |
|
|
Short |
6.8 |
6.4 |
7.8 |
7 |
21 |
|
|
Medium |
7 |
7 |
8 |
7.33 |
22 |
|
|
Long |
6.9 |
7.3 |
8.1 |
7.43 |
22.3 |
|
|
Total |
20.7 |
20.7 |
23.9 |
21.76 |
65.3 |
Caster Notes:
- This rod is easy to work with. I like the hardware on it – not too much weight. Good recovery. Reminds me a lot of the Orvis Recon. In my opinion, this is an above average rod and holds up from short to long targets. A workhorse.
- A little clunk in very short, but dampens with 15’ of line in the air. Not too stiff at 50’; bends ⅔ of the way down at medium target. Way more flex than the 11-weight for sure.
- The lightest of all reel seats and you can feel it in the rod. The rod loads really well at 30’ (short) target. A little slower, can’t force it too much out at 40’-50’ (medium). I felt if I held lower on the cork, I get more performance out of the rod going out to the 70’ target (long). Sector feels better in the 9-Weight.
Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The Scott Wave 9wt is an easy rod to work with and has the feel of a dependable workhorse. The hardware is well balanced and relatively light, particularly the reel seat, which contributes to the rod’s comfortable feel in hand. It offers good recovery and a smooth casting stroke that holds up well across a range of distances.
At very short range there is a slight clunkiness, but once about 15 feet of line is in the air the rod settles down and begins to perform much more smoothly. Around 30 feet it loads well and provides a controlled casting feel. By the time you reach the 40 to 50 foot range the rod bends well into the blank, offering more flex than expected and producing consistent casts without feeling overly stiff.
As casts extend further, the rod continues to perform but responds best to a smoother casting rhythm rather than being forced. Holding slightly lower on the cork helps unlock more performance when pushing casts toward 70 feet. The rod maintains solid consistency from short through long targets and offers dependable performance across the entire course.
Thomas & Thomas Fly Rods
Thomas & Thomas Sextant 9' 9-Weight | $1,095.00
From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
These are our flagship fast action flats rod. The Sextant excels in a flats fishing scenario, where accuracy and presentation are paramount. The fast action of the Sextant has great power for throwing flies into headwinds, but still retains delicacy for presentations to wary fish. The Sextant is easy to load, and works great with floating, clear tip, or intermediate lines typically used when sight casting or delivering flies at long distance with maximum control. These rods can also handle sinking lines well.
From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?
Caster Scores:
PERMIT COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 66.5/90
|
Thomas & Thomas Sextant |
Caster 1 |
Caster 2 |
Caster 3 |
Avg. |
Combined |
|
|
Short |
7.4 |
6.6 |
7.3 |
7.1 |
21.3 |
|
|
Medium |
7.6 |
7.5 |
7.2 |
7.43 |
22.3 |
|
|
Long |
7.8 |
8.2 |
6.9 |
7.63 |
22.9 |
|
|
22.8 |
22.3 |
21.4 |
22.16 |
66.5 |
Caster Notes:
- I really like the hardware: cork and butt of the rod, especially the textured part of the cork. There seems to be a dead spot in the butt section of the rod when casting.
- Gorgeous cork. Nicely balanced with the Hatch Iconic 9+ reel. Backhand in short is smooth. Surprisingly good casting rod in short for a ‘big’ rod. Mid range is excellent. Nothing not to like at 50’ and relatively easy at longer distance target.
You need to slow the rod down quite a bit at close range, but still impressive! - Plenty of power, just need to slow down and catch up to the rod. Slightly aggressive caster will like this stick. I really like the Sextant at distance (long). It feels like it stabilizes and is grounded/tight at 70’.
Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The Thomas and Thomas Sextant 9wt features excellent craftsmanship, highlighted by beautiful cork and a well designed fighting butt. The textured section of the cork provides a nice grip and gives the rod a refined feel in hand. Paired with a reel like the Hatch Iconic 9 Plus, the rod feels well balanced and solid throughout the casting stroke.
At closer distances the rod performs better than expected for a rod with this much power. Short range shots are smooth, including backhand presentations, though the rod benefits from a slower casting tempo to stay in sync with the blank. When rushed, a slight dead spot in the butt section can become noticeable, requiring the caster to slow down and let the rod work.
In the mid range around 50 feet the rod performs exceptionally well and feels very comfortable delivering accurate casts. As more line is carried in the air, the rod continues to improve and feels particularly stable at longer distances. Around 70 feet it tightens up and becomes very controlled, offering strong line speed and a grounded feel that aggressive casters will appreciate.
Thomas & Thomas Zone 9-Weight | $695.00
From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
The Zone series is our mid-priced rod series, packing performance and versatility into a value driven package. The Zone 908-910 are designed for general purpose saltwater use. These rods have a fast action, and can handle a variety of lines including floating lines, intermediates, or full sinking lines.
From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?
Caster Scores:
PERMIT COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 64.3/90
|
Thomas & Thomas Zone |
Caster 1 |
Caster 2 |
Caster 3 |
Avg. |
Combined |
|
|
Short |
7.2 |
7 |
7.2 |
7.13 |
21.4 |
|
|
Medium |
7 |
7.2 |
7.3 |
7.16 |
21.5 |
|
|
Long |
6.8 |
7.5 |
7.1 |
7.13 |
21.4 |
|
|
Total |
21 |
21.7 |
21.6 |
21.43 |
64.3 |
Caster Notes:
- I’m not too impressed with this 9-weight. There seems to be a “dead spot” and the counter flexing is more noticeable. I do really like the cork/fighting butt.
- Great turnover and feel at 30’. The rod is bending deeper into the blank than many of the other rods. When you apply some more horsepower, the rod tightens up the loop and puts a point on the line, which is great for casting in the wind.
- Big fan of the two-tone cork grip with different feel. A little heavier of a rod. Definitely slower and a bit tippy. A fishery with dark water/close shots, this would do great in. Being a slower rod, almost too forgiving. I’d like a little faster so I can push it. Sweet spot is 30’-50’ and not great out at 70’ (long).
Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The Thomas and Thomas Zone 9wt features attractive craftsmanship, highlighted by a two tone cork grip and a well designed fighting butt that feels comfortable and secure in hand. The rod is slightly heavier than many others in the group and carries a slower action that is noticeable throughout the casting stroke.
At shorter distances around 30 feet the rod performs well, delivering good turnover and a pleasant casting feel. The blank bends deeper than many of the faster rods tested, which gives it a forgiving nature and makes it well suited for close range shots. When additional power is applied, the rod can tighten loops effectively and drive the line with authority, which would be useful when casting into wind.
The rod’s sweet spot falls between roughly 30 and 50 feet where it feels the most comfortable and controlled. Beyond that distance the slower action begins to show its limitations and the rod can feel slightly tippy with a noticeable dead spot when pushed harder. It would perform well in fisheries that favor shorter shots and controlled presentations rather than repeated long distance casts.
Thomas & Thomas Exocett 88 9-Weight | $1,045.00
From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
This is our versatile rod series, for casting large streamers, sinking lines, and taming large fish. This is a progressive action rod series, allowing the Exocett 88 to pick up a lot of line at distance, or aerialize a sinking line quickly for minimal false casts. The 88 fights fish quickly with plenty of power and control, and can handle lifting very large fish especially in boatside scenarios. The carbon and S-glass layups used in this rod give it excellent strength when it counts. With the proper line pairings, this rod can handle many different fishing situations.
From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?
Caster Scores:
PERMIT COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 68.6/90
|
Thomas & Thomas Exocett 88 |
Caster 1 |
Caster 2 |
Caster 3 |
Avg. |
Combined |
|
|
Short |
7 |
7.5 |
7.8 |
7.43 |
22.3 |
|
|
Medium |
7.4 |
8.1 |
7.6 |
7.7 |
23.1 |
|
|
Long |
7.8 |
8.2 |
7.2 |
7.73 |
23.2 |
|
|
Total |
22.2 |
23.8 |
22.6 |
22.86 |
68.6 |
Caster Notes:
- I like the cork, but the fighting butt is a little too long. The rod is counter flexing. There seems to be a bit of ‘after shock’ when casting and delivering the presentation.
- Relatively nice dampening in close. Silky smooth with false casts at medium target. The turbo zone is carrying 50’ of line. Wants to go and go when shooting.
- Easy to cast at 30’. Didn’t have to force line out. I like the 8’8” blank for these shorter casts. A little whippy at 50’ (medium). I need to pull line up hard with this rod – not as effortless. I need to do a lot of things right with timing at longer distances.
Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The Thomas and Thomas Exocett 88 has attractive cork and a well finished grip, though the fighting butt feels slightly longer than necessary. The 8 foot 8 inch blank gives the rod a unique feel compared to standard 9 foot rods and contributes to its quick handling at shorter distances. There is some noticeable counter flex and a bit of after shock following the cast, which can be felt during the presentation.
At closer distances around 30 feet the rod is easy to cast and loads without much effort. The shorter blank works nicely for these quick shots and the rod dampens relatively well once the line is moving. It delivers smooth false casts and begins to show its strongest rhythm when carrying a moderate amount of line.
Around the 50 foot range the rod enters its most comfortable zone, carrying line smoothly and wanting to continue shooting once the line is released. As the distance increases further the rod requires more precise timing and effort from the caster. It can feel slightly whippy in the mid range and pushing to longer distances demands more deliberate technique to maintain control and loop shape.
Winston Fly Rods
Winston Air 2 Max 9' 9-Weight | $1,245.00
From the manufacturer: What specific fishing scenarios did you design this rod for, and where do you feel it truly excels in performance?
The focus of the 909 Max was to be an incredibly versatile saltwater rod. While in the R&D phase, we had iterations in Key West competing in the Del Brown, fighting the windy winter of the Louisiana Bayou searching for bull reds, and up in the Northeast casting 900gr sinking lines for stripers. This rod was built to buck a head wind, beautifully present a crab pattern, or tussle with an angry striper. Long story short, it can do anything you want it to.
From the manufacturer: What fly line would you recommend pairing with this rod?
Caster Scores:
PERMIT COURSE - TOTAL SCORE 66.8/90
|
Winston Air 2 Max |
Caster 1 |
Caster 2 |
Caster 3 |
Avg. |
Combined |
|
|
Short |
6.4 |
6.5 |
8.1 |
7 |
21 |
|
|
Medium |
7 |
7.2 |
8.2 |
7.46 |
22.4 |
|
|
Long |
7.2 |
7.9 |
8.3 |
7.8 |
23.4 |
|
|
Total |
20.6 |
21.6 |
24.6 |
22.26 |
66.8 |
Caster Notes:
- I really enjoyed this rod. I like the hardware, cork, fighting butt, and it’s light. The Air 2 Max is bending more than the others. I don’t really have to think too much about what I am doing when casting it.
Always pretty rods with handsome hardware. About the best cork quality I’ve seen. - A little clunky very close, but improves with 15’ of line out. Takes a fair amount of line to load, but if you slow your stroke, it feels great. Effortless to get distance and very straight. This baby wants to go!
- Not as smooth of transition at 30’, still accurate – a bit jumpy in the hand. Starting to feel the rod come alive at 40’-50’ (medium), but still wobbly. I feel like it is jumpy through the progression of the rod loading. It got better overall the further out it went at the longer target.
Yellow Dog Final Takeaway
The Winston Air 2 Max 9wt is a beautifully finished rod with excellent hardware, high quality cork, and a well designed fighting butt. It feels light in hand and carries the classic Winston aesthetic and craftsmanship. The blank bends more deeply than many of the other rods in the group, giving it a distinct feel throughout the casting stroke.
At very short distances the rod can feel a bit clunky and slightly jumpy in hand, though it remains accurate. Once about 15 feet of line is in the air the rod begins to settle down and cast more smoothly. It requires a bit more line outside the tip to load fully, and slowing the casting stroke helps the rod perform more comfortably.
As the distance increases the rod begins to come alive. Around the 40 to 50 foot range it starts to feel more responsive, and the performance continues to improve the further the cast is pushed. When carrying more line the rod delivers strong distance with very straight tracking, showing that it prefers to be opened up and allowed to run.
An Interview With Capt. Ian Slater
Few people watch more anglers fish in a single season than a professional flats guide. From beginners to seasoned travelers, guides see hundreds of anglers step onto the bow, take shots at fish, and try to execute under pressure.
Over time, clear patterns emerge. Some anglers improve dramatically during the course of a single day, while others struggle to make adjustments.
Below is a Q&A with Capt. Ian Slater about what separates anglers who improve from those who don’t, along with the most common mistakes seen on the water and the small habits that make the biggest difference.
What separates anglers who improve during the day from those who don’t?
The biggest factor is focus throughout the day. The anglers who improve are actively trying to see fish before the guide does. They stay engaged and scan the water instead of simply waiting for instructions.
Preparation beforehand also plays a big role. Anglers who have practiced casting before their trip often progress much faster because they are refining skills rather than learning them from scratch.
Another major factor is asking questions. Simple questions like “Was that really thirty feet?” or “What did you see when you spotted that fish?” help anglers pick up on subtle cues and get up to speed quickly.
The anglers who improve the most are also the ones who can move on from a missed shot. Instead of getting frustrated, they reset and focus on the next opportunity.
Is improvement mostly about communication?
In many ways, yes. A large portion of a guide’s day is spent communicating about shots.
Distance, direction, fish behavior, and timing all require coordination between the guide and the angler. When anglers communicate clearly, everything becomes easier.
Sometimes anglers are a little quiet or shy, which is very common. But ideally, anglers should be assertive. If they see a fish, they should say something rather than waiting for the guide to initiate everything.
Confidence in communication usually develops with time on the water, but even new anglers can improve quickly by staying engaged and speaking up.
Do anglers come into a day with different goals?
Absolutely. Every angler fishes for different reasons.
Some anglers want to become highly skilled technical fishermen or even tournament level competitors. Others are simply looking for a day away from work and family responsibilities.
For many people, a fishing trip is as much about finding peace and clarity as it is about catching fish.
A good guide tries to understand those goals early in the day and tailor the experience accordingly.
What’s the first casting flaw you usually see?
Most anglers try to cast too far.
Many anglers take pride in making long casts, but in reality a large percentage of shots happen well inside thirty feet. Anglers sometimes overshoot fish because they are focused on distance instead of accuracy and efficiency.
However, casting itself is not always the biggest problem.
Very often the bigger issue is fly line management in the boat.
Why is fly line management so important?
If the fly line is a mess in the boat, the angler is not getting the shot off.
It is very common to see anglers take a shot and then leave line hanging over the side of the skiff or piled loosely around their feet. As the angler on the bow, keeping the fly line organized is part of the job.
Whether fishing out of a bucket, using line spikes, or simply stripping onto the deck, the angler still has to manage how the line comes back into the boat.
Every shot is preparation for the next one. If the line is tangled or dragging in the water, the next opportunity may disappear before the angler is ready.
Why do anglers rush shots even when they don’t need to?
Stress is usually the biggest reason.
When fish appear, anglers get excited and their motor skills start to break down. They stop feeling the rod and line as well, and they begin fighting the cast instead of letting it happen naturally.
A helpful way to think about it is that anglers often have more time than they think, but less time than they want.
Taking a breath and slowing down can make a huge difference in executing a good cast.
How can anglers handle pressure better?
Slowing down the process helps tremendously.
Some anglers even count in their heads during a shot to avoid rushing. Counting through the motion forces them to stay deliberate rather than panicking when a fish appears.
Most shots only take a few seconds to execute, but when anglers rush those few seconds, mistakes compound quickly.
A good principle to remember is that slow is smooth and smooth is fast.
If an angler could only do one thing well on your boat, what would it be?
Shot readiness.
That mostly comes down to keeping the fly line stacked neatly and ready for the next cast.
There are many factors in fishing that anglers cannot control. Wind, current, and fish behavior all play a role. But the one thing anglers can control is the condition of the fly line at their feet.
If the line is organized and ready, they are prepared when the opportunity appears.
What does a good caster actually mean?
A good caster is someone who has taken the time to practice away from the water so that casting becomes muscle memory.
Not every angler needs to cast seventy or eighty feet. In fact, many excellent anglers consistently fish within the thirty to fifty foot range.
One helpful way to think about casting skill is through three priorities: quickness, accuracy, and distance.
How quickly can an angler deliver an accurate cast at a known distance?
If an angler can consistently deliver a quick, accurate cast at forty or fifty feet, that angler is already very capable on the flats.
Understanding personal limitations is also important. Knowing what distance feels comfortable allows anglers to fish confidently rather than forcing casts beyond their range.
What are some other casting mistakes you commonly see?
One common issue is an open casting loop that allows the wind to easily disrupt the cast.
Tailing loops are another frequent problem and often lead to wind knots. These issues are frequently caused by rushing the cast or forcing the rod too aggressively.
Taking an extra moment to settle down and maintain proper timing usually corrects many of these problems.
What is one small improvement that instantly helps most anglers?
Learning how to manage the wind more effectively can make an immediate difference.
For example, when the wind is blowing directly into the angler’s face, many people try to force the cast straight into it. Instead, it can be more effective to send line on the back cast and then hold it into the wind before delivering the final presentation.
This approach allows the angler to use the wind’s energy more efficiently rather than fighting it.
Once anglers learn how to work with the wind instead of against it, casting in difficult conditions becomes much easier.
What matters less than anglers think?
Many anglers place fish on a pedestal and build the experience into something bigger than it needs to be.
At the end of the day, flats fishing often comes down to hitting targets and getting flies into the right places.
Anglers do not have to do everything perfectly. If they do eighty percent of the process correctly, the rest often comes down to what the fish decides to do.
Letting go of the pressure to be perfect can make the entire experience much more enjoyable.
What matters more than anglers think?
Having a great attitude.
More than any specific technical skill, attitude has the biggest impact on the day. Anglers who stay positive, stay engaged, and enjoy the process almost always end up having better experiences on the water.
In many ways, attitude is ninety nine percent of it.
