Scott Wave Fly Rod Review
The new Scott Wave fly rods have just come out and we will be reviewing all of the different weights as soon as we can! Check them out here: Scott Wave Fly Rods
First impressions of the Scott Wave 8wt: This is going to have to compete with our best-selling rod ever, the Sage Maverick. Long story short: I love both.The Maverick is the big competition in this category since the Wave will easily surpass any less expensive options in this category of mid-priced high-performance fly rods intended for saltwater (and actually I think the Wave might also be one of the best freshwater fly rods at this price). Personally, I am a huge fan of this new rod. I am the buyer for our fly shop and I got a ton of these, they are selling like crazy.
Read on for my thoughts, but if you want me to make a long story very short - I am keeping one for myself, I just put it into my travel case with my other personal rods, so that should tell you everything you need to know. This is going to be a big hit with a lot of people. You will be impressed. It's great.
The Scott Wave 8wt fly rod I tested was absolutely excellent (kept one for myself from our first batch here). I was very impressed with the effortless performance and the weight is noticeably less than most saltwater rods. You have to wonder, what did they "take away" from the rod to keep the price down? Because I can't see a thing I don't like about the rod itself. Even the nylon rod tube is well-made with a good zipper on it. If the only thing Scott saved money on was the storage case and some simpler components than the Sector, I wouldn't be surprised and I can't complain either. This rod is easily worth more than it costs. If you think $1,000+ fly rods are insanely priced but you still want something high-quality and made in America, it's really going to come down to this or the Sage Maverick (Sage Sonic for freshwater and light saltwater, but it maxes out at an 8wt), or possibly the Thomas & Thomas Zone which is also very nicely made. That's it.
I have used basically every saltwater rod and nearly every major freshwater fly rod too. I regularly carry around a Sage Maverick or the new Salt R8 but I am adding this to my bag for sure. Tons of fun and so easy to cast.
I really like both this new Scott Wave and the Sage Maverick but for different reasons. Again, I am left wondering what the manufacturers even left out, since these rods are so nice and work perfectly well. That being said, I think it would be tough to choose between them and if I had to give a slight edge to one I might say this new Scott Wave is my current favorite. I sell a ton of Mavericks every year and I never, ever hesitate to recommend them. The Maverick honestly had no real competition until now.
I actually like both the looks and the performance of these rods and this is another one where, when customers come to me asking for suggestions, or "Is the Wave a good rod?" I would say confidently yes, it is absolutely excellent.
In fact, you can actually call and talk to me directly if you'd like to know more or need some advice. Ask for Ben!
Call us any time or email with questions, we are always happy to help! 941-483-6847 or info@saltflypro.com
*More photos and more line and rod comparisons coming very soon! Feel free to call or email us to ask questions about it and anything you need!
