I don't know for sure, but I don't believe there could be much difference with the same rod just in the shorter length. I do think that the 9' rod would roll cast easier and that might help a lot. I also think that the line might make a bigger difference than the rod length, as different line cast easier at certain ranges. Also shorting up the cast would help greatly, much easier to cast 30 feet than 60 feet with almost any combination. I would think that the bigger issue would be the strain from the actual catching of the fish, because with any rod at all you still will be fighting the fish with just one hand at least part of the time. For that the longer rod might have the advantage.