I like both rods, but they're quite different from one another.

The Lami is definitely a light action (6-10 lb line rating). It handles small jigs well, especially where I have to hold the fish in a hole (like blue creek). Also great with 6lb leaders when I'm low water summer-running. I don't use it for C&R because I'd rather have the backbone so I don't have to play the fish to exhaustion (which you have to do with big fish). Also don't use it too much during high flows. In other words, if you hook a big one, or medium sized one in fast water, you need room to walk him down.

The Loomis definitely has a medium action backbone. I can turn the head of just about anything with the rod. With the additional backbone and 6", I've made 100yd floats, had a takedown, and succesfully hooked and landed the fish. It handles 8lb just fine, but thats as light as I'd go. I make sure I keep a loose drag when I'm using jigs; don't think I've straitened a hook yet, but its possible. The rod is physically heavier than the Lami, which is the only drawback I can see.

There you have it. I guess if I were to pick one for both winter and summer fishing, I'd go with the Loomis. When drift fishing, the added weight of the Loomis is a little bothersome, but I've never had that whistling hook set. If this isn't a problem for you, go for the Loomis. You can't beat the Lami for summer-running though.

[This message has been edited by obsessed (edited 02-03-2000).]

[This message has been edited by obsessed (edited 02-03-2000).]