Any rod of such length will be tip-heavy...it's a matter of physics. Thus if you want to balance the rod, you need to find a way to add weight to the foot of the rod. One of the best way is to either stuff lead into the cap, if possible, or else put lead into a cylinderical tube ( I use a syringe disposal clear plastic tube) and then tape it to the end of the rod. It works beautifully. Doing this will reduce the strain on your forearm and make casting much more pleasant. This is true for shorter rods as well.