I have a 1084 IMX, an 1143 gl3 and a Lamiglas 10.5 6-10lb casting rod.
The 10.5 sure could use a counterweight if you're making alot of casts in a day.
I have found that playing a strong fish is more fun with med action rods than the fast and ex-fast.
Less stress on the line and the wrists!
I noticed that the sockeye anglers on the Kenai had better landing rates with flyrods than the gear fishermen with the meat rods.
It's hard to judge until you've brought a couple of fish to the bank with each.
Good luck!