Overview

The Sage Signal is Sage's new mid-priced saltwater rod, released in August 2026 to replace the Maverick. It is a fast, saltwater-specific design that Sage built to cover the full range of flats situations, from short, punchy shots at fish closing fast on the boat to long, quiet deliveries to cruising tarpon. Sage pitches it at anglers taking their first steps into salt as much as at those exploring new fisheries and species.

The Signal moves up to Sage KonneticHD Technology, a higher-density graphite and resin composite that Sage says makes for a lighter, stronger blank with better recovery and loop control. It is finished in Sea Smoke with Blue Dun wraps and Metallic Aqua trim, with a Fuji ceramic stripper, oversized hard chromed snake guides, a Bead Blast black anodized aluminum reel seat with an integrated hidden hook keeper, and a super grade full-wells cork grip with a cork and EVA fighting butt. Every model is 9' and 4 pieces, and the rods are built on Bainbridge Island, Washington.

Which Signal Should You Choose?

Wary bonefish on calm days, finesse and accuracy: 690-4 (9' 6 wt).

Tailing fish on skinny flats, breezier days: 790-4 (9' 7 wt).

One everyday bonefish and redfish rod: 890-4 (9' 8 wt).

Bull redfish, permit and wind: 990-4 (9' 9 wt).

Permit and mid-size tarpon: 1090-4 (9' 10 wt).

Sage Signal Specs

Sage Signal Models

690-4 - 9' 6 wt

The finesse end of the Signal family. When the wind drops and bonefish get spooky, the 6 wt gives you accurate, quiet presentations with fast-action performance in reserve.

Best for: bonefish on calm days, small flats fish, light saltwater.

Line pairing: A 6 wt bonefish or all-round flats taper. We recommend the SA Amplitude Smooth Bonefish (WF6F) or the SA Amplitude Textured Bonefish (WF6F).

790-4 - 9' 7 wt

A responsive 7 wt with enough power for breezier days, built for stealthy presentations to tailing fish on skinny flats.

Best for: tailing bonefish and redfish, skinny water, lighter wind.

Line pairing: A 7 wt bonefish or redfish taper. We recommend the SA Amplitude Textured Bonefish (WF7F) or the SA Amplitude Smooth Redfish Warm (WF7F).

890-4 - 9' 8 wt

Sage's all-day, everyday bonefish rod in this series, balancing responsive power and line speed for long, accurate shots across the full range of flats conditions. In its first review the 8 wt felt stouter than the Maverick it replaces, still loading close in at 30 feet and settling into its sweet spot around 40 feet.

Best for: bonefish, redfish, all-round flats fishing.

Line pairing: An 8 wt bonefish or all-round saltwater taper. We recommend the SA Amplitude Textured Bonefish (WF8F) or the SA Amplitude Smooth Bonefish Plus (WF8F).

990-4 - 9' 9 wt

Built for bull redfish and permit, with the power to punch through gusty conditions and the backbone to turn large fish, while still laying down a delicate presentation for wary targets.

Best for: bull redfish, permit, windy flats.

Line pairing: A 9 wt permit, tropical or all-round saltwater taper. We recommend the SA Amplitude Smooth Tropical Jungle Titan (WF9F) or the SA Amplitude Smooth Grand Slam (WF9F).

1090-4 - 9' 10 wt

The Signal for hard-charging permit and mid-size tarpon, pairing a light, strong blank with real fish-fighting power.

Best for: permit, mid-size tarpon, heavier saltwater work.

Line pairing: A 10 wt tarpon or all-round saltwater taper. We recommend the SA Amplitude Smooth Grand Slam (WF10F) or the SA Amplitude Smooth Tarpon (WF10F).

Signal vs Maverick and Salt R8

The Signal replaces the Sage Maverick as Sage's mid-priced saltwater series. It moves from Konnetic to KonneticHD construction, and early testing found it a bit stouter and stiffer at short range than the Maverick. Above it sits the Sage Salt R8, Sage's premium saltwater rod; reviewers note the Signal works slightly harder at long range and does not quite match the Salt R8's refinement. Choose the Signal for a capable, versatile saltwater rod at a mid-range price, and the Salt R8 if you want Sage's best. For big flies in fresh water and salt, see the Sage Payload.

Sage Signal FAQ

When did the Signal come out?

Sage released the Signal in August 2026.

Did the Signal replace the Maverick?

Yes. The Signal is Sage's new mid-priced saltwater series in place of the Maverick.

Which Signal should I buy?

The 890-4 (8 wt) is the all-round bonefish and redfish choice. Go to the 990-4 for bull reds, permit and wind, and the 1090-4 for permit and mid-size tarpon.

Where is the Signal made?

Built by Sage on Bainbridge Island, Washington.

Does it come with a case?

Yes, a matte black powder coated aluminum rod tube with gloss black end caps, plus a black rod bag.

What is the warranty?

Sage covers its rods for the original owner against defects in materials and workmanship. Breakage outside that coverage is repaired for a fee set by the age of the rod.