This summer on the upper hoh I got a 20# springer on my 5ft ultra light with 6lb line while going after dollies, that was a hell of a fight. next cast I got a 16lb wild summer run hen. It was quiet a challenge but not very good for the fish. Wouldnt recomend going after steelies with that kind of tackle due to the stress it makes on the fish. I use a 1082 and 1141 in summer, with theese rods you can fish floats or drift gear with light line also work good for throwing hardware. I recomend either rod they give you the controll and needed power with a light and sensitive feel. The added length also helps with throwing light presintations.