Anybody fished the Sage VT2 8139 or the Scott A2 1308?

[Mike Danahy]

I am looking at picking up a spey rod for winter steelhead. I spend a lot of time over on the coast, mostly the larger rivers, and am finding that my 9 ft rod ain't quite cuttin it. It's not so much distance that I'm really lookin for, but the extra line control that the two-handed rods will give me, especially at longer distances. I've been doing a lot of research, and while most of the rods I'm thinkin about have been talked about here or on other forums, two rods that I haven't seen a whole lot of talk about and that have been recommended to me are the sage VT2 8139 and the scott a2 1308. I am curious as to whether these two rods would be a bit too fast for a beginner spey caster? And would a skagit line be a good choice for them? I am pretty good at at the double spey and snap t with my nine foot rod, not sure if that really will translate at all though.

I also just found out this evening about All About The Fly spey casting thing on sundays and was wondering if it is still happening now that the sky is closed?

Thanks for the help guys,

Mike

[SpokaneFisherman]

I consider myself to be on an average spey caster. I've the fished the VT2 quite a bit and really like it. I think it throws an 8/9/10 windcutter very well. But I really like it with a 550 skagit and a 5ft cheater. The skagit really makes up for my shortcomings. I also own an 8140 FLI which you may want to consider. Can't help you on the Scott though.

[Mark Bové]

Both rods are nearly identical in casting style except I think that the sage is a touch slower, which isnt bad for a spey rod. I fished the sage for 2 days on the Skagit with a 550 skagit line and it flew far all day. Cast them both and see what you like.

[Red Shed]

I agree the A2 is a bit faster. They are both great rods but I would pick the VT2. Lined with a skagit as Spokane suggest and I think you would have a winner.

I do believe Kristin and Ron are still having Sunday on the River with Mike Kinney. You might call them for more info @ (360) 863-1833. Mike Kinney is a wonderful teacher. He makes casting a two hander look as easy as picking up a donut.:thumb:

[Will Atlas]

I fish the VT2 and I like it. I throw a 550 with 15 foot tips and it works great. Definately has some deep flex on it, but I like the way it feels. Then again I've probly only casted 12 different spey rods.

Will

[Dan Kell]

To answer your question about the spey clinics at Ben Howard. Yes, they are still going. No problems with the Sky being closed. Just put a piece of yarn or a clipped fly on.

[Mike Danahy]

awesome, thanks for the info guys! Hopefully I can get my hands on 'em soon to see how the feel.

[solduc]

i fish the 8139 amd 7130 with a 550 skagit and 7-12 ft of t14. both are very smooth rods and a real joy to cast. 7130 is plenty of stick for most winter fishing and and big water summer run.

[Robert Easterday]

Mike,

I've fished the Scott A2 1308 quite a bit. It's a fast, powerful rod that does not flex very far down into the butt section and I agree totally with those who have recommended the VT2 for your purposes instead. The A2 will cast Skagit lines, but it seems to have a flex pattern better suited for Scandinavian shooting heads and underhand casting. If you're like most Skagit casters, you'll enjoy a fuller flexing rod.

Hopes this helps you sort your options.


Bob