I am not new to flyfishing, but am still a novice--I have a #6wt St Croix entry level rod (cant recall the model number) and am looking to upgrade, but within a budget (under $250. Used a lot of the opinions on this site, but did not see anything about the Launch series from Sage--anyone have any views on this rod (or any other suggestions?)

Thanks in advance!!

In my opinion, I would rather buy a nice Temple fork outfitter's rod. The TiCrx is a great rod and only a little more than the Sage Launch. With a Sage fly rod you're paying a lot just for the name on the rod. The Launch is a marginal rod at best. Give TFO a try.

I've just traded in my Launch 8 wt for a Loomis Xperience. I've been pretty disappointed with the Sage. My main complaint is that it just doesn't pick line up off the water very well. Also the action is not crisp enough for my liking. I always felt that timing on the backcast was a bit sluggish. This might be less of an issue in a 4 or 5 wt.

I've landed a 30lb salmon with the Sage and I have no complaints about the rod's ability to handle big fish. It's an attractive and well made rod and if you like medium action I'm sure it's fine.