Curt, again that was just my opinion,we can give opinion's on this site when asked right? A Loomis GL3 STR1143C is a Mod-Fast action 6-12lb Medium, and not considered an Ultra-light stick, as quoted above. I gave you this opinion because you said you mainly fish steelhead and want enough pole for the occaisional "nooker", the extra length allows you to fish a float or use traditional drift fishing methods with bait or spinners. This is just my opinion, I fish steelhead all-year round by choice, I release when required and kill when I want just like any other avg. fisherman, but the avg. fishman or women doesnt fish 3 to 4 days week so fishing with light gear doesn't make me weak in the knee's, and should not make you either. I agree with Randy and Th that 1 good rod and reel combo that can catch anything the NW rivers can produce is good idea.... TH in my opinion, my idea of "ultra light gear" fishing is trying to beat the IFGA line record for catching a billfish of 110+lbs, on I think its 4lb test Good luck Curt.