I'm sure you made the right choice with the Sage. It is my opinion that these rods take alot of undue criticism. I have cast many rods [TandT, Scott, Hardy, Loomis, Redington, Loop] and currently own a Winston DB fave and the old Sage 9140. Love the Sage. Very easy casting rod. After researching this board and others I chose to line it with a Rio 789 wind cutter { couldn't find a airflow delta spey to buy in my area} and a set of Airflow tips. A brilliant combo. Miike we are in the same area. For a possible DEMO p m me.