If you haven't already, think through how you want this rod to perform for you. The right tool for the right job as my wise old dad used to say. In its' base functional sense a fly rod is just a tool to catch fish. Do you want a general purpose rod that will be useful in an array of water types and fishing styles or are looking for a specialty rod that will give you an advantage on specific waters or style. Do you need a pack rod for tight travel on that DeHavilland DHC-2 Beaver for your Alaskan trip. Stay focused this is where I drift off daydreaming!