Sage’s new SPEY Reels are designed specifically for the anadromous angler, providing an ideal mix of enhanced, modern performance and refined, traditional design. Internally, SPEY Reels utilize a redesigned, sealed, carbon fiber disc and dual-clicker drag system that ensures dependability, eliminates unwarranted spool rotation, and offers exceptional resonance. Mass and balance were given equally-high attention in our design process as we updated model sizing to better align with matching Spey rods and we adjusted the location of the reel foot to provide uniform axial balance with the rod. A full-frame design eliminates the possibility of shooting lines slipping between spool and frame and the addition of a machined radius around the reel foot makes for comfortable wrapping of leader, tip, or tippet. Completing the package is a classic and elegant aesthetic of porting and laser engraving that Spey anglers can acknowledge and appreciate.
In addition to the attention given to the drag, frame, spool, and aesthetic of the new SPEY Reel, Sage also spent considerable time calibrating the dimensions and scale of each model in the family. To match the wide range of rods used by Spey anglers around the globe, Sage landed on three distinct reel sizes - 5/6/7, 6/7/8, and 8/9/10 - which also correspond with the most common types of Spey applications. Each model aligns with the physical rod weights of its given range and provides the appropriate line capacity.
Summer & Lightweight - 5/6/7
Spey anglers targeting summer-run steelhead, fishing shorter rods, or those interested in the building the lightest-weight system possible will find the 5/6/7 reel size to be their best match. This model is the smallest in the family but is still able to accommodate larger-diameter Skagit and Scandi-style lines.
All-Around
For anglers who pursue steelhead and salmon in multiple seasons across numerous venues, the 6/7/8 model is the most versatile and matches the widest variety of Spey rods and applications. This model has a large line capacity, powerful drag, and enough mass to balance rods up to 13’6”.
Big Rod, Big Fish, Big Water
When targeting the largest and strongest anadromous fish on the biggest rivers, drag strength and adequate line capacity become increasingly important. The 8/9/10 size of SPEY Reel is best for Spey anglers in pursuit of Atlantic and Chinook salmon as well as those casting Long Belly Spey lines on 14- and 15-foot rods.
SPEY Reels are built on the foundation of our longstanding Sealed Carbon System (SCS) Drag and improved upon with two key evolutions: newly formulated O-ring seals, and custom dual-clicker.
Newly Formulated O-Rings
The drag systems are sealed by our new and proprietary O-rings, which are designed to withstand greater amounts of compression. This ensures a stronger seal while at the same time resisting wear and fatigue
Custom Dual-Clicker
Sage redesigned the clicker system, adding a second clicker. In addition to increased amplification and improved durability, the dual-clicker design also limits free spool rotation, so fishing distance isn’t inadvertently decreased while casting.
One-Revolution Drag Knob
The SPEY Reels’ One-Revolution Drag Knob has twenty, numbered drag settings with half-detents, allowing for precise, consistent, and replicable drag settings that can be returned to over and over again.
The frame and spool designs of the SPEY Reels focus on the Spey system’s balance as a whole and also the unique lines and riggings used in two-handed casting and fishing.
Fine-Tuned Balance
The location and amount of the reels’ portings (or lack thereof) are strategic, resulting in an overall weight that is appropriate for longer Spey rods. Additionally, Sage adjusted the location of the reel foot from an exact-center position to better align with the center-of-mass of the reels themselves. In the machining of the reel foot, we included radiused edges; this prevents any kinking, memory, or compromising of the Spey leader, tip, or tippet.
Line Management
Sage's spool design features full-frame line guards to eliminate any chances of shooting line migration, a wide palming rim to allow for additional control while fighting fish, and capacity dimensions to match larger-diameter Spey lines. Retrieval direction is changed easily with a flip of the clutch bearing.
The SPEY Reel aesthetic is an amalgam of influences from the past and present, a nod to Spey traditions and innovations of our own making as well as those from the greater anadromous angling community.
Precision Machining
The reels’ porting shapes and laser engravings call to mind classical designs while the depth and layers of the frame and spool are never-before-seen.
Timeless Colors
The colors were developed to be alluring but modest, and the anodized finishes add character while also providing corrosion resistance and surface protection. Of special note is the Granite colorway, which perfectly complements the new Sage SPEY R8 rods.
| Sage SPEY II Reel Specs | |||||
| Model | Diameter | Weight | Width | Size | Capacity |
| SPEY II 5/6/7 | 3.94" | 9.44oz | 1.69" | 5/6/7 | 550gr Skagit +100ft Shooting Line + 150 Yards 20lb Backing |
| SPEY II 6/7/8 | 4.19" | 10.31oz | 1.75" | 6/7/8 | 600gr Skagit + 100ft Shooting Line + 150 Yards 30lb Backing |
| SPEY II 8/9/10 | 4.56" | 11.25oz | 1.81" | 8/9/10 | 725gr Skagit + 100ft Shooting Line + 200 Yards 30lb Backing |
