Seven Weight Rod Question

[Leo M]

Is a 9' 6" seven weight, modern day graphit rod big enough for Atlantic salmon and steelhead? Thanks.

[sagefisher]

Yes, it should be. The 7 weight can handle fairly large flies including streamers. Just make sure you have a good grade of reel and lots of backing in the event you tag into an especially large fish. Larry ---sagefisher---

[jszymczyk]

Yes. The two atlantics and several steels I have caught with my 9'6" 7 weight have only just gone into the backing a little bit, even in open water. Should be plenty of rod even for the big ones.

[alra195]

I prefer a 10' but have a 9' 6" as my backup rod. You're definitely in the right ball park and the 7 weight rods are my preference, regardless of the length. Like Larry said, be sure to team it up with a reel that has a good quality drag and the ability to hold some backing.

[Leo M]

Thanks for the replies. I thought I was OK. I fish Atlantic's on a regular basis but have been using spey rods for nine years now. The seven weight is the only single hand rod I have left and the reel for it has lots of drag. Thinking of using the rod for some dry fly work. I know I'm limited on a windy day. Thanks again.