I started using a Spey rod around 1990 - maybe 1988, for steelhead on the rivers to the west of us. My best was a 24 pound wild buck in a river that averages 14 pounders. The long rod is a wonderful tool. Every now and then, I go back to a short 9'6" #9 wt. but always fish with the 'meat rod' to beach a few first. Lately we've been flyfishing for Sockeye and the long rod isn't needed, but fun just the same.

For most of my trout fishing, boats or wading, I use a pair of 4 wts. now, but also have a 5 and a 6 for windy times.