that is a personal prefrence, they all work, but you have to find what works for you, I like 9' rods but i have a ton of 8' 6'' rods that i use as well, in my boats i like 7' rods, and it goes on and on and on....people who dont fish ask me why i have 30 rods and reels, they are all different and have a purpose.. find how you like to fish and find a rod that fishes that way,,