Hey Nordic, I've gone through the same decision making process and now have a Fenwick FS83C, Custom Made by WW Grigg and finally, a Diawa Heartland S. All are fiberglass and range from 7' 6" to 8' 6" long. I like the shorter length rods because of space constraints on my boat. I like being on the same side of the boat as my netter and the short rods allow this. I've tried longer rods but found I have to back up for netting part. Means the rod person misses the netting fun. Anyway, my selection of rods have both cork and synthetic handles both of which work well. Longevity, well, after 4 seasons of downrigger fishing, they both seem to be holding up well. Anyway, that's my 2 cents worth.