i think GBL may be on to something, just look at how many models of steelhead rods lamiglas has discontinued in the last couple years. getting down to the point where mostly all either boat trolling rods, or float rods. i think it's kind of telling about the current situation...tributary fishing down that way is pretty much on life support.

that really sucks about anglers workshop, i stop in to dig through the bargain bin every time i'm in the area, and it's one of the few places i can test out a rod blank in person. hard to get a feel for that from a website or catalog.