I think I get what everyone is basically saying. I already have the short rods covered and should start looking for a decent longer rod to balance out my inventory. There is no such thing as too many rods IMO

You are becoming wise, grasshopper.

Time and a place for everything. Rule of thumb on rod length:

"Use as long as you can get away with, but not longer."

Which for me is about 6'. Even if there are no trees behind me, I'm snaggin' something on my back cast!

I jest, of course.

Quote:

This is largely true and good standard advice for most I think. Just a bit of a different perspective though...I'm a short rod guy...part of that is the kind of streams I most often fish, but even still, my rod of choice is probably shorter than most guys on a given stream. For instance my "big" rod is an 8'6 5wt and I do most of my trout fishing with either a 7'0 or 8'0 4wt. I just like the casting options a shorter rod opens up on the stream, and am willing to give up a little in terms of mending and line control for the greater maneuverability and easier casting clearance in tighter spots. As mentioned before it's a tradeoff, and personal preference to a large degree. That said, looking at your current lineup grouse I agree with the consensus that your next rod should probably be on the longer end of the spectrum.

What are advantages of longer rods?

Wow! I can't believe noone answered "Just ask my wife."

KABOOM!!

Quote:


Same here. I have a 4 wt 7.5 foot, 8wt 9ft, and a 5wt 11 foot switch. Any time I am on a decent sized creek I take the switch rod. It will throw a # 4 streamer 75 foot and I can control the line and mend it really well from a long distance. Plus the advantage of using spey casts w a longer rod makes back cast room not an issue in most cases.

krayfish: "KABOOM!!"

Thank you! I'll be here all week.

Tip your waitress.