All this talk about 'too long' or 'too short' depends on type of fishing, size of river, and your personal preference. Long rods are great of line control and casting distance, but they're too clumsy in tight spaces and for transporting. So the only answer is to own 50 rods and carry several to custom match your fishing conditions. Anohter alternative is to get one of those telescopic rods that extend out to 12'.

For those of you who just want an answer, I'll choose a 10' , 8-15 lb fast action rod for a compromise.