That time of year again, and the wife is bugging me for ideas, so Ive decided on a flyrod setup for limited (maybe more) Steelie/Salmon action. I dont fly fish religously, but own a nice 5wt lami (1298-5) which I believe is the 1000 series blank. I love using it for small stream trout in June/July, but dosnt see much action the rest of the year, so why not get beefier rod for the big boys, after all its not my money. So heres were I need help.
1. What size, I was thinking 9wt
2. What brand (rod), I like my 5wt lami, but are there better rods for the money (around $100). Remember, this is a part time passion. When I really want to catch fish, Ill still use the drift gear and hardware.
3. How about the reel, I know this plays a more important role with the big boys, and I really dont have a clue in this dept. My 5wt setup has an Okuma on it, and I have been somewhat satisfied, but rarely does the drag get tested.

Thanks for any and all help
Tight Lines
Rock