Rod length

[Gig]

A quick question from a novice fly fisherman from australia.

Is a shorter rod,ie an 8 footer less forgiving of casting errors than a 9 foot in the hands of a novice? If so why?

Same question asked in aus forum and answer was mostly no, but i have read articles(not sure where now) which state otherwise.

Interested in a 9 foot rod anyway. Any help will gtreatly be appreciated.

Cheers

[Gardenfish]

I believe that is is the action of the rod that determines the "forgiving" of the cast not the length. I have rods ranging is length from 6'8" to 9' and they are in the moderate range of action. Supposedly this is the best action for us beginners. SI seem to remember that somewhere on this site is a graph listing various brands of rods and their actions. Have fun.