Dave,
Try picking up the rod tip to get closer with a 9' rod in the Oklahoma wind and your fly will be in the next county
I have done lots of trial and error, short rods are best for me.
And lastly, some tips for very close casting-
Furled leaders make casting nothing but leader a little easier.
If you know you're only casting at short range, overline your rod by two or even three weights. My 2 weight loads and feels great with a small distance of 5 weight line out the tip.