You've found a new passion. I was out early this morning, stealing a moment of necessary down time, working out a Five Rivers I got from Dan Craft and wrapped. Just absolutely love this rod. Two flyrods and a spinning rod for a silent auction are waiting for the snows to fly. In answer to your first post I would definitely ease myself into the rod. I was probably over critical with my first couple. One was a 8 wt. Forecast that was a stick and a half. Took some real getting used to and I eventually overlined it after a couple of people I trust gave it a workout. Both agreed it was underlined with an 8 line. I put on a 10 and it's now casting like I originally envisioned. HEre's the kicker. Every time I finish a rod I think this will be the last. It never is. JGW