Dudley,

I have no troubles 'bushwhacking' with a 9 foot rod.

Some of the small streams I fish are almost inaccessible, and 'bushwhacking' through thicketts and dense trees is the only way to get in.

I just take my time getting to the water, and then stay there until a fallen tree forces me out again. It's more about paying attention and going slow than it is about the length of the rod. If I can get 'me' in (I'm not a little feller), I can get any rod in.

AND, once I get there, the longer rod gives me better line control and 'reach' where casting is difficult.

However, I also fish the same waters with a 4 1/2 foot rod. Catch fish with both. I just 'prefer' the longer rod for efficiencies sake. I can make better presentations with it, more of them, and thus get the fly to more fish. I use the little short rod when the conditions are 'perfect' and I know I'll get plenty of fish on dries. The little rod is lots of fun to fish with.

It really is just a matter of preference and your own fishing style. What works well for me may not work well for you.

Part of what makes this so darn much fun.

Good Luck!

Buddy