Quote Originally Posted by alra195 View Post
I have and use both 9 1/2' and 10', 7 weights on the Ohio and Pa tribs and have never had a problem with them being too long. The lengths not needed for the "extra" casting distance. It's all about line control, keeping line off the water to improve your drift, being able to mend and control the line and feel the take. Distance casting isn't what Lake Erie Tributary fishing is all about. Most folks (at least in my opinion) fish too far away and don't control the drift or can't feel the takes they're getting because they have too much slack line.

I highly recommend the 9 1/2' or 10' rods. Get a ten footer and don't look back!
Ditto what Joe said.
I spent my high school and early twenties winter Steelheading on Erie and Ontario tribs and a ten ft rod was only an advantage. I prefer a 6wt but that's just me.