You know if there was "That Perfect Rod/Reel" why do I have a dozen rods/reels in my garage?? Like everything else you don't know what you like until you try it for awhile. Look for good discounted/or sale stuff. Orvis www.online.com is a good place. It's the hunt for that next "Perfect rod" almost as good as fishing. There's a great fly shop in Sandy Ore. Great lessons and good deals. I driven from Tacoma to take their Steelhead fly fishing classes. Worth every penny. Also check your local fly shop every week, get to know the guys there, ask a lot of questions. Good luck.