I totally agree Fly Goddess. I've landed two catfish, 25 and 27" on a 3 weight this year.. I do cast a lot of 4-7" flies and many tied on 1/0 hooks. Not only do you have to cast them but, even with a 6wt graphite, it takes a decided (and sometime exaggerated) strip-set to get the hook set - especially on topwater stuff.. Like everyone - I'm looking for that "perfect" rod.