I am in the process of picking up a 9' 9 wt. 4 piece or 2 piece rod to use while fishing for stripers and salmon.

Question #1 - I do travel and would prefer a 4 piece rod but would a 2 piece be stronger for these two species?

Question #2 - In backing the line what pound test backing and what material (dacron / gel-spun, etc.) should I purchase?

I see that I can place 275 yards of 35 lb. backing but as I look at the different leader set ups I am wondering if I should go with a 45 lb. backing or even 50.

Since this thing will happen in another week or so I would need some help. I have toyed with saltwater fly fishing but decided to take it serious for a change and want to get it right the first time.

Thanks,
Coach