When I fish, I carry the GL3 ll43c and the IMX 1082s. I end up using the 1143 about 80% of the time. It is a super all around rod. The 1143 is rated for slightly higher lb. test line than the 1082, although they do overlap a good bit. I don't know the rating for the 1084, although it sounds as if it's probably fairly equivalent to the 1143. That might affect your choice, if you haven't considered it. As voiced above, the 1143's a great drift rod and its extra 6 inches makes quite a bit of difference for float fishing. It is a good float rod for short to medium distance. If you plan to get heavily into float fishing, you'll probably end up wanting something longer. This is what has prompted my interest (now bordering on lust), for the GL3 STR 1263c. And the 1143 is not overly long for some of the tighter situations you might encounter along the banks of most rivers.

I use the 1082 for situations calling for lighter presentations. I agree with the above that it's not long enough for long (or even medium) distance float presentations. It is fine for close-in float fishing. There is nothing like catching a good fish on that rod.

If I had to choose one rod, I think it would be the 1143. I certainly hope Loomis is not considering taking it out of production. As far as I can tell, it's one of the most popular steelheading rods out there.

By the way, props to Auburn Sports and Marine. I broke my 1143 on the Kalama last Friday. I took the rod to AS&M on Saturday and the good people there simply took a new one down off the rack and handed it to me. No fuss, no bother, no paperwork, no hassles. That's why I bought my rods there and that's why I'll buy the 1263 from them.

[This message has been edited by T Dodge (edited 01-12-2001).]

[This message has been edited by T Dodge (edited 01-12-2001).]