Stuff I Like: Sage 1880 Fly Reel

For most it's history, saltwater fly fishing has been an expensive sport to get into where the gear is concerned. This has changed radically in the past decade. As more anglers head to the ocean with their fly rods, the manufacturers have stepped up to the plate with gear that's more affodable to everyone.

Just last week I picked up my first fly reel that cost me under $400. It's a new Sage 1880 and is set up for 7 to 9 weight fly lines. It retails for only $139. I'm currently using it on an 8 weight rod up here on Pine Island, Florida and catching the hell out of everything from seatrout to small tarpon. The reel is capable of handling any saltwater fish up to fifty pounds and even comes with Sage's great waranty. This is a solid aluminum reel with a sealed and adjustable drag system. Ten years ago you would have spend at least $500 for the same capability. These reels are available all over the internet and at any fly shop carrying the Sage line.

Inexpensive fly gear is now common in the market and this is great news for anyone heading toward the ocean with a passing interest in fly fishing. Most dedicated freshwater tackle will disintegrate in the salt and isn't up to the challenge of species like bonefish or tarpon. It's now possible to pick up a great rod and reel for under $300 that can handle anything you'll see from the bow of any flats boat. If you're heading to the coast or the islands and are thinking of tossing a fly at something, there's plenty of stuff out there that won't cost more than the budget of your entire vacation.