I'm looking to build a 5 wt (I need something in between my 3 wt and 7 wt). Right now, I'm going back and forth between an 8.5' and 9.5' rod. (Ahh! Do I want a smaller rod for when I fish streams with thick tree cover around them, or do I want the longer rod for high sticking, pulling streamers up out of the deep and casting over short brush? This is so hard!)

Anyway, my 7 wt is a 9' St. Croix SCII and my 3 wt is a G Loomis 7.5' IMX. I really love the IMX, so right now that's my first choice for the 5 wt, but I'm willing to look at some other blanks.

Obviously, opinions on the subject will be about as wide-ranging as they come, but I'm looking for some opinions on a blank (under $200).