Sage's METHOD fly rod series, which this year replaced its ultra-fast TCX rod series in the Sage lineup, has received some significant recognition as of late. The METHOD has generally received by fast-action rod fans as a welcome evolution from the TCX, offering all of the speed and power of its predecessor, but with a great deal more feel and accuracy. And it seems many are in agreement.

The METHOD was recently chosen as Best Saltwater fly rod by Fly Fisherman Magazine and took home top awards in the upcoming winter issue of Fly Fusion Magazine. Fly Fusion's editors noted, "A ton of heart goes into each and every issue of Fly Fusion Magazine, however, the upcoming winter issue goes above and beyond traditional effort. Within it is our most comprehensive rod review to date. Jeff Wagner, Fly Casting Field Editor for Fly Fusion and Board of Governor and Master Certified Fly Casting Instructor with the Federation of Fly Fishers headed up the massive effort which included a total of three experienced fly casters. With the cameras rolling over 7,000 casts were made and the data recorded. We are excited to announce that the Sage METHOD took home the top honors by winning in all of the following categories:5 wt Accuracy & Distance, 5 wt Distance, 8 wt Accuracy & Distance and 8 wt Distance."

There's a reason why articulated streamers are popular – they attract fish. Why not apply the same concept to nymphs? The articulated tail imitates movement of swimming nymphs which attracts the attention of trout. Articulated nymph patterns have been around for quite sometime. Dave Whitlock wrote about the articulated damselfly nymph in the book, “The Fly Tyers Almanac” back in 1975. He found that this pattern presented a life-like action that entices fish to strike.

There are several different ways to attach the tail to the body. Since the hook bend is on the front, I felt a 15 pound mono attaching both parts would suffice. Another option would be to place the hook in the back instead of the front. If this was the case, I would use heavy wire connecting the two and securing with some glue.

Pheasant Tail nymphs should be in every fisher's fly box. They imitate a variety of nymphs and can be tied with or without a bead head. Change the color of the pheasant tail and dubbing as you like. Instead of dubbing, you can also use peacock herl.