I seem to recall we had this conversation over several drifts on Loch Shin a couple of seasons ago
For boats/hill lochs I like a 10 foot rod, for some reason I've always had a penchant for #5wts. I think that's probably because over the years I've found a #5wt will do what I want pretty much wherever I want. Only recently have I been in a position to seek out specialist rods to add to my collection over a single compromise rod.
The 10ft was a compromise to the single rod as well, I'd probably have an 11ft rod for the job in an ideal world. In a drifting boat and with traditional, or semi-traditional, short line techniques the extra length allows you to 'dibble' more effectively than a shorter rod. Everything justs eems more relaxed with a longer rod, and a day in boat should be relaxed.
As you know very well Sandy I've been trying (even to this day) to find a great 10ft rod between 3-5wt that meets most of the criteria you mention at a price I can afford/justify. If I were to stick my neck out and name a rod I'd say that the Greys Streamflex we played with recently impressed me hugely (another shot would be good
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As to what is the best line weight & rod length combination I'd still have to say that for a 'wild' fishing all rounder then I'd still plump for what my wallet hasn't quite found yet:
A middle to tip actioned 10ft for a 4wt line. However, that's me. Others will differ -I trust
: - but I'd suggest that more than anything else fish with what you're happy with, there's not much you can't do with a shorter rod and if longer ones aren't your bag why change
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Gee - that was supposed to be a short answer
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