About the G-loomis rods! I have just ordered the str 1082 gl3 custom made from a rod builder in Marysville. I had this same discussion with him about whick rods would be the best for drift fishing. His reply was if it was him buy a dirft fishing rod it would be the str 1082 light action 9'-0" gl3. His reason behind that was the extra sensitivity of the gl3. The gl3 is made with a little better material than the gl2, so it is stronger. Be sure when buying a nice rod like that to match up with a nice, smooth casting reel and you have an excellent combination for steelhead drift fishing. If you want to know who builds these great rods all custom, e-mail me at bjones@martinselig.com. See ya! tight lines.