Premium Pack SAGE R8 Core 9' Line Weight 5 + SAGE Shift LT

Premium trout fly-fishing package: precision, control, and true versatility

This premium Ardent Pêche package pairs the SAGE R8 Core 9' 5-weight rod with the SAGE SHIFT LT reel and RIO Elite Gold fly line for a cohesive, high-performing setup that’s especially enjoyable to use on the water.

Built around a 9' 5-weight configuration, this package is for fly anglers seeking a premium solution for a wide variety of trout-fishing situations. Whether fishing medium-sized rivers, long drifts, dry flies, nymphs, wet flies, or light streamers, the setup stands out for its short-range precision while retaining excellent power in reserve when you need to cast more line or contend with the wind.

A SAGE R8 Core rod built for all kinds of delicate, technical fishing

A benchmark for 9' 5-weight versatility

The SAGE R8 Core 9' 5-weight is arguably one of the most versatile trout configurations in the series. It feels at home across a very wide range of applications, offering remarkable line control and making successive false casts exceptionally easy.

Its fast action provides the precision needed for technical presentations while retaining enough flex to feel comfortable and intuitive. The rod lets you fish accurately at short range while maintaining control when conditions call for more line, greater speed, or a more authoritative cast.

Control, comfort, and power in reserve

R8 Core technology was developed for real-world fishing, not just pure casting performance. On the water, that means excellent energy transfer, outstanding loop stability, and a keen feel for the line during false casts, mends, and the final presentation.

This 9' 5-weight model is especially well suited to anglers who want one premium rod that does just about everything exceptionally well, without being overly specialized.

A lightweight, reliable SAGE SHIFT LT 5/6 reel that perfectly complements the package

A reel designed to keep the setup balanced

The SAGE SHIFT LT brings a real focus on light weight and comfort to this package. Its machined 6061-T6 aluminum construction delivers rigidity, durability, and reliability while keeping weight down so the rod stays balanced.

That balance is essential in a premium trout setup. It affects comfort over long days of fishing, how the rod feels in hand, and the overall smoothness of use.

A high-performing drag you can count on

The SHIFT LT features a highly refined sealed carbon drag system. It offers precise, consistent, and smooth adjustment, with excellent protection against water, sand, and demanding conditions.

Although this package is geared toward trout, a high-quality drag remains a real advantage, particularly with powerful fish, hard-fought battles downstream, or situations where line control must be flawless.

A RIO Elite Gold fly line to unlock the rod’s full potential

Premium versatility at its best

The RIO Elite Gold perfectly complements the character of this package. Known for its versatility, it lets you get the most out of the SAGE R8 Core 9' 5-weight in most trout-fishing situations.

Its taper promotes clean, stable casts and performs very well at medium and long distances. It also remains accurate for more delicate presentations, turning over longer leaders effectively while maintaining an excellent feel for the line.

Shootability, sensitivity, and control

Thanks to its SlickCast coating, the line shoots exceptionally well with very little friction. It directly improves false casts, makes it easier to shoot line, and helps produce clean loops.

Its ConnectCore Plus core improves sensitivity and control, while MaxFloat Tip technology helps the tip float exceptionally well for careful drifts and precise presentations.

Why choose this package

A cohesive setup for the demanding fly angler

This package does more than put three excellent products together. It offers a technically cohesive setup built around an exceptionally versatile 9' 5-weight rod. The reel enhances the setup’s balance and overall reliability, while the line lets you make the most of the rod blank in the most common trout-fishing situations.

It’s a smart choice for anglers looking to invest in a premium, durable, high-performing setup that will serve them well on regular outings and in more technical situations.

Package highlights

• SAGE R8 Core 9' 5-weight rod, an all-around trout model
• Excellent versatility for dry flies, nymphs, wet flies, and light streamers
• Fast action combining precision, comfort, and power in reserve
• Lightweight, rugged SAGE SHIFT LT reel that’s a pleasure to fish with
• Precise, consistent, and reliable sealed carbon drag
• RIO Elite Gold fly line, ideal for most situations
• Outstanding shootability thanks to the SlickCast coating
• Excellent line control, from false casts to the final presentation
• A balanced, high-performing, durable premium setup
• A package perfectly suited to fly anglers seeking premium gear that’s ready to fish
  
  If you have questions about choosing a rod or fly line, or selecting components for tying flies, please contact us through our website, by phone, or in person at our Ardent Fly Fishing store.