Sage Z-axis vs. ZXL

[hardtail]

I am looking to purchase an 8'6" 5wt. and the store I am buying at is having a huge sale so my choices are between the Sage Z- axis and their new trout rod the ZXL. Does anyone have any input on these rods or ever fished these rods in that wt. Thanks

[smcisaac]

I have not fished them, but my understanding is that the Z-Axis is the better rod for distance and the ZXL is the better rod for delicate presentation.

Based on no more than that, I'd suggest a 9 foot Z-Axis if you'll be throwing long casts on big water, or an 8 or 8 1/2 foot ZXL for dry fly work on typical New England streams, or a 9 foot ZXL for nymphing.

Nice dilemma you've got there.

[NHA2005]

I have not fished them, but my understanding is that the Z-Axis is the better rod for distance and the ZXL is the better rod for delicate presentation.

Based on no more than that, I'd suggest a 9 foot Z-Axis if you'll be throwing long casts on big water, or an 8 or 8 1/2 foot ZXL for dry fly work on typical New England streams, or a 9 foot ZXL for nymphing.

Nice dilemma you've got there.

that is exactly correct

[MKDeceiver]

If you like 8 1/2 rods, then I wouldn't necessarily jump up to the 9 rod, however extra length does help if float tube fishing...Google "5-weight shootout" for some rod reviews. Z-Axis feels pretty sweet in the store, if they have Gloomis Streamdance I would seriously consider that rod also. I have no clue about ZXL's....

[smcisaac]

If you like 8 1/2 rods, then I wouldn't necessarily jump up to the 9 rod, however extra length does help if float tube fishing...Google "5-weight shootout" for some rod reviews. Z-Axis feels pretty sweet in the store, if they have Gloomis Streamdance I would seriously consider that rod also. I have no clue about ZXL's....

As I understand it, Sage tweaked the Z-axis for better delicacy and came up with their ZXL, while Loomis did the same to the StreamDance and came up with their WhisperCreek.