[saltyhackle]

I'm looking to add a 6wt for redfishing this fall/winter. Our reds here in Tampa are highly pressured and act more like bonefish, so I'm throwing light and small patterns (#4 and even #6). I'm hoping that by lining down from an 8wt I'll get a softer presentation on those s.o.b.'s.

I know this is more likely a matter preference, but for those that actively use 6wts in the salt, do you favor a fast action or medium action rod for those 40-60 foot shots? Curious to know what works for you at those distances.

I'm looking at the Lamson SS and Sage Maverick for the faster rods and the Scott Tidal for a medium action. Open to other suggestions, but those are the ones that are a) in my price range and b) I've already casted.

 

[saltyhackle]

I can't wait for the cooler weather and lower tides...love throwing the 6wt here.

If you can find a Sage ONE, that is what I throw in 6wt. If not, then definitely look at the Sage Maverick. The Maverick reminds me of the ONE.

The Lamson SS is a really nice rod as well. I have cast it at Bar Fly events quite a bit but not live on the water.

My backup 6wt is a Redington Predator, which I prefer over the TFO Mangrove in that weight.

I like both of those rods, but I'm still unsure how I feel about the Lamsons aesthetics... I like the "traditional" look of the Maverick.

How do you like your Sage ONE at close distances? My main reason for starting this thread is because I don't want to make a decision and then find out when I'm on the water that I've handicapped myself haha.

 

[saltyhackle]

I have the Lamson SS with an Orvis Hydros mounted on it. It is a great cost effective rod and it's all I need in a 6W. My 2nd cast with it I scored on a small redfish here in Sarasota.

Sweet! I also have the hydros and it's been great so far, especially considering the price!!

How do you like your SS at those close distances? Is there any feel? I remember casting the 8 a month ago and recall it being pretty fast.

 

[saltyhackle]

Do yourself a favor and cast the Scott Sector in the 6 wt. I’ve been using this rod all summer, and love the way it casts. I lined it with the SA Grand Slam Amplitude.

Might have to take out a small loan to afford that rod haha but I get what you're saying. I've hearing nothing but raving reviews about the guys who have it.

 

[saltyhackle]

What line do you plan to use? I like the SA Mastery Bonefish on the 6wt in the winter for throwing small flies to spooky fish.

That's exactly what I'm planning to use. Again, throwing a lot of smaller patterns so I don't think there's a need for big taper. I have that same line on my 8wt and it's been great.

 

[saltyhackle]

If you can find a discontinued Scott Meridian......grab it!

Ooh... now you got me thinking... I saw a used one on here the other day... I'd for sure be battling imposter syndrome if I got that rod hahaha.

 

[saltyhackle]

Love the Sage ONE anywhere between 30-60'.

Nothing bad to say about it.

Its paired with a Tibor Freestone. Don't think I can get any better in the 6wt space.

If you find one discontinued but don't want to buy it, let me know...I will...

Haha I will.. So you think the Maverick would be similar?

 

[saltyhackle]

I use a Lamson SS 6 wt almost exclusively in TB starting in November thru April and then on the beaches for surf snook in the summer. I throw a Monic Henley Phantom Tip and have no problem shooting out 40-60' shots.

Ok cool good to know! As I mentioned earlier, I just don't want to make a decision and then find out I've handicapped myself for those close in shots. Thanks for sharing! The SS seems to be SUPER popular in our area.

 

[saltyhackle]

I like NRX's for everything, but, the Sage one 6w is just awesome. I got it because the blanks were on sale and just lucked out.

Hey Ken,
I thought I was the only one who loved this 6wt, I picked up a One used and fell in love with it. It seems it can cast everything from a med/heavy 6wt line all the way up to a longer taper lighter 8wt bonefish line. Glad to see I am not the only one that thinks this Is a unicorn.
Robbie

Didn't know the Sage One 6wt had its own club haha I love it! At this moment, I'm leaning towards the maverick.

 

[saltyhackle]

Let me know if you get that Maverick 6wt and how you like it.

Will for sure do! I've got about a month or two before I have enough for it. Hopefully just in time for fall.

 

[saltyhackle]

If your 5 or 6 wt doesn't have a "fighting butt" you should consider adding one.

That's a non negotiable for sure! Gotta have that protection.

 

[saltyhackle]

I know I’m jumping in late here, but I have an Orvis H3d and absolutely love the 6wt. The various Sages never worked for me. That being said with the Scott Meridian already gone, I’d be awfully tempted for a 6wt Radian with a fighting butt since they went on clearance today.

https://www.tridentflyfishing.com/scott-radian-fly-rod.html

Full wells w/ the fighting butt already outta stock... 😂 that didn't last long haha

 

[saltyhackle]

I know I’m jumping in late here, but I have an Orvis H3d and absolutely love the 6wt. The various Sages never worked for me. That being said with the Scott Meridian already gone, I’d be awfully tempted for a 6wt Radian with a fighting butt since they went on clearance today.

https://www.tridentflyfishing.com/scott-radian-fly-rod.html

For whatever reason my mind came back to this- and I've found a 6 w/ full wells and butt..... Thoughts on using it in the salt?

 

[saltyhackle]

What did you end up picking?

You must have "spidey senses" because I literally just picked up a Maverick in 6wt and 8wt this afternoon. Took sage about 6 months to get them in to my local shop cause of COVID. Super sweet casting in the parking lot. Will update later when I get a chance to take it out on the water!