Go with the G.Loomis GL2 8wt 9' model if you intend on using sinktips for winter or summer fishing. Rod has a somewhat med. slow action that really aids in shooting those heavier sinktips out a country mile w/ minimul false casting. I personally use this setup and have landed a 17lb wild Feb fish with this setup. It runs around $200 to 215.
The slow action builds up the weight of the sinktip easier and gives you a good powerful forward stroke to propell that line out a healthy distance if needed...Dennis Dickson recommends this setup for the above mentioned reasons.