LAST EDITED ON Sep-19-00 AT 03:30 PM (PST)

First off, GREAT FISH Rob!!! I read your report on catching the monster and i noticed you used a 9 foot rod. You told me that your idea of a perfect trout rod would be an 8 footer. I'm not saying you're a liar, I just wanted to know if a 850 or 900 calstar blank would be better. I mostly fish from shore and i'd feel more secure making LOOOOONG casts. Also, i'm getting a float tube soon and I was wondering if i could fish a trout from it. People tell me its hard to set the hook on a fish. WOuld I have trouble fishing big wood? I'd love to hear all your opinions on rods, reels, and float tube stuff.
Thanx for all the help-Vince