The Ultimate Guide to the Sage GRAPHITE III 696RPL 2-Piece Fly Rod
1. Introduction: Why the Sage GRAPHITE III 696RPL 2-Piece Fly Rod Stands Out
For fly fishing enthusiasts, the right rod can make all the difference between a frustrating day on the water and an unforgettable experience. The Sage GRAPHITE III 696RPL 2-Piece Fly Rod is a legendary piece of equipment, known for its precision, durability, and exceptional performance. Whether you’re targeting trout in a mountain stream or casting for bass in still waters, this rod delivers the perfect blend of power and finesse.
In this guide, we’ll explore the different types of Sage GRAPHITE III 696RPL rods, how to choose the best one for your needs, and our top recommendations.
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2. Types of Sage GRAPHITE III 696RPL 2-Piece Fly Rods
The Sage GRAPHITE III 696RPL is primarily a 6-weight, 9-foot, 2-piece rod, designed for versatility in various fishing conditions. However, variations may include:
– Fast-action models – Ideal for long casts and windy conditions.
– Medium-fast action – A balanced choice for accuracy and control.
– Specialized tapers – Some rods are optimized for dry flies, nymphing, or streamers.
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3. How to Choose the Best Sage GRAPHITE III 696RPL 2-Piece Fly Rod
Consider these factors before purchasing:
– Fishing environment – Fast-action rods excel in windy conditions, while medium-fast is better for delicate presentations.
– Target species – A 6-weight is great for trout, small bass, and panfish.
– Casting style – If you prefer quick, powerful casts, opt for a fast-action rod.
– Portability – A 2-piece rod is easier to transport than a 4-piece but less compact.
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4. Top 5 Sage GRAPHITE III 696RPL 2-Piece Fly Rod Recommendations
1. Sage GRAPHITE III 696RPL Fast Action Fly Rod
Highlights: Legendary fast-action performance with superior power.
✅ Pros:
– Exceptional casting distance
– Lightweight yet durable
– Great for windy conditions
❌ Cons:
– Less forgiving for beginners
Best for: Experienced anglers who need precision and power.
2. Sage GRAPHITE III 696RPL Medium-Fast Action Fly Rod
Highlights: A balanced rod for accuracy and versatility.
✅ Pros:
– Smooth casting with excellent control
– Works well with dry flies and nymphs
– Comfortable for all-day fishing
❌ Cons:
– Not ideal for heavy streamers
Best for: Intermediate anglers who want a do-it-all rod.
3. Sage GRAPHITE III 696RPL Streamer Special
Highlights: Designed for aggressive streamer fishing.
✅ Pros:
– Strong backbone for big flies
– Handles larger fish with ease
– Great turnover for weighted flies
❌ Cons:
– Overkill for small trout
Best for: Anglers targeting bass or big trout with streamers.
4. Sage GRAPHITE III 696RPL Dry Fly Edition
Highlights: Optimized for delicate dry fly presentations.
✅ Pros:
– Superb sensitivity for subtle takes
– Light tip for gentle landings
– Ideal for technical waters
❌ Cons:
– Struggles in heavy wind
Best for: Dry fly purists fishing spring creeks.
5. Sage GRAPHITE III 696RPL All-Rounder
Highlights: A versatile choice for multiple techniques.
✅ Pros:
– Great balance of power and finesse
– Works well for nymphing and dry flies
– Durable construction
❌ Cons:
– Not specialized for extreme conditions
Best for: Anglers who want one rod for everything.
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5. Buying Considerations for the Sage GRAPHITE III 696RPL 2-Piece Fly Rod
– Check the action – Fast for power, medium-fast for versatility.
– Inspect the condition (if buying used) – Look for cracks or wear.
– Pair with the right reel – A balanced setup improves performance.
– Warranty & support – Sage offers excellent customer service.
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6. FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1: Is the Sage GRAPHITE III 696RPL good for beginners?
A: It’s better suited for intermediate to advanced anglers due to its fast action.
Q2: Can this rod handle saltwater fishing?
A: No, it’s designed for freshwater use.
Q3: What line weight works best?
A: A 6-weight line is ideal, but a 5 or 7 can work depending on conditions.
Q4: Is a 2-piece rod harder to travel with?
A: Yes, a 4-piece is more portable, but the 2-piece offers better performance.
Q5: Does Sage still make the GRAPHITE III series?
A: No, it’s discontinued, but used models are highly sought after.
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7. Final Thoughts & Call to Action
The Sage GRAPHITE III 696RPL 2-Piece Fly Rod remains a top choice for serious fly anglers. Whether you need power, finesse, or versatility, there’s a model for you.
Ready to upgrade your fly fishing game? Check out trusted retailers or the used market to find your perfect Sage GRAPHITE III rod today!
Happy casting! 🎣
The Sage GRAPHITE III 696RPL 2-Piece Fly Rod is a classic model from Sage’s early lineup, known for its high-performance graphite construction and precision action. Here’s what you need to know about it:
Key Features:
– Model: 696RPL (6-weight, 9’6″ length, 2-piece)
– Blank Material: GRAPHITE III – Sage’s advanced graphite composite of the era, offering a balance of strength, sensitivity, and lightweight performance.
– Action: RPL (Remote Power Launch) – A fast-action taper designed for long, accurate casts with tight loops, ideal for nymphing, streamers, and big water.
– Configuration: 2-piece design (less portable than modern 4-piece rods but robust for its time).
– Line Weight: 6-weight (versatile for medium to large trout, bass, and light steelhead/salmon).
Historical Context:
– The GRAPHITE III series was a flagship lineup in the late 1980s–early 1990s, preceding the iconic RPL+ and XP series.
– The RPL designation signifies a fast-action rod optimized for distance and wind-cutting performance.
– The 9’6″ length was popular for steelhead, nymphing, and Euro-style techniques before shorter rods became trendy.
Pros & Cons:
✔️ Durable blank with crisp recovery.
✔️ Excellent for big rivers, nymphing, or streamers.
✔️ Classic Sage craftsmanship (made in Bainbridge Island, USA).
❌ 2-piece design is less travel-friendly than modern 4-piece rods.
❌ Fast action may feel stiff for beginners or dry-fly purists.
Who Should Consider It?
– Collectors of vintage Sage rods.
– Anglers who prefer fast-action rods for distance or heavy flies.
– Those fishing large rivers where the 9’6″ length is advantageous.
Modern Alternatives:
If you like the RPL action but want updated tech:
– Sage R8 Core (fast, lightweight)
– Sage X (progressive fast action)
– Orvis Helios 3D (similar fast-taper performance)
Value Today:
– Used Price: ~$200–$400 (depending on condition).
– Collectibility: High among Sage enthusiasts, but not as sought-after as the RPL+ or LL models.
Would you like help identifying its era (e.g., serial number decoding) or tips on pairing it with a reel/line?