Best 12wt Fly Rod for Saltwater in 2023-2024: The Sage SALT R8 12wt with Fighting Grip

Check it out here: Sage SALT R8 12wt (1290-4FG)

There, I said it. For rod weights such as 8wt, it is really hard to declare an absolute winner, but for the 12wt category, it's 100% the Sage SALT R8 for me. Extended fighting grip is so nice to have. That little extra bit of cork makes a huge difference when you are fighting big fish. Close to this are still the usual suspects, the Winston Air 2 MAX, the Scott Sector, and the Thomas & Thomas Sextant. All great choices, don't get me wrong. But this Sage 12wt is lighter, performs equally well if not better, and has that awesome grip. Winner, winner, chicken dinner.

https://saltflypro.com/products/sage-salt-r8-12wt-1290-4fg-fly-rods-the-best-new-rods-for-saltwater-fly-fishing