I got my first bamboo rod about 3 years ago and like many others there was no going back at least for most trout fishing situations. I now own 5 bamboo rods and would like to have a few others someday. You do need to cast as rods as you can and if possible take the opportunity to fish a few. Not sure were you are located but you can generally find guys in your area that if you ask nice would probbably meet you on a stream some place and fish one for a bit. If you are anywhere near SoCentral PA look me up.
Bill From PA