I bank fish on the wynoochee. Its not too wide but I want to have better control in those little niches that always seem to be across the river. Seems to me if I could just get my rod tip a little higher I could keep the current from grabing my line and pulling my liure out of the "sweet spot" for an extra second or two. I know about float fishing with long rods, but Im new to this addiction and want to perfect my drift fishing skills this year. So far my reasurch has brought up a 365$ Loomis 13.4 and 15' float / spinning rod. Since this would completely wipe out all the vast industrial wealth in my retirment fund, is there a less expensive choice in a 13' plus rod that I can spin with . I also have a Curado that my X wife gave me. Could I use this casting reel on a rod that long with very good results? Sorry for all the newbee questions, and I appreciate all the help Ive recieved so far.. Dan out.