[BigCliff]

I would recommend the Ross Cimarron over the Tioga. I have used them both and like the Cimarron better. I would also recommend checking out Galvan and J Ryall reels in a similar price range, as they are great reels and www.thefullcreel.com can set you up with a great deal on one of those.

That 8'6" VPS light would also be a great rod to add to your quiver. The 9' version of that rod is my all time favorite, but the 8'6" version would offer you a better step down from the 9' 5wt VPS. Those two would give you a fantastic dry fly and nymphing rod set-up.

[Opt]

scottiecoach-

Not 100% sure on forum rules here in regards to posting external or non sponsor links... but I did PM you the place I purchased it from. I can't vouch for them yet as this is my first purchase from them. They do have a few VPS and VPS Lights on clearance there. (12 different models)

BigCliff-

Thanks for the suggestion on the reels. I thought about getting a 4 wt instead of the 5wt, but thought a 5 would suit my needs a little better. If I could have gotten 2 rods... I probably would have gone with a 4 and a 7wt. With the 7wt for salmon and sea run trout.

[fshfanatic]

One word in regards to reels, OB-3

[FowlHabit]

I'm with fshfanatic on the OB-3 reel, I absolutely love mine.

[BigCliff]

Now you've just set yourself up to get a 3wt later on for small trout and panfish. We'll be glad to help you pick that one out too.

On the 7wt for salmon, if you have any pike fishing opportunities up there, i'd get an 8wt as your heavier rod. An 8wt will also throw heavier sinking lines that might be needed to get down to deep salmon in fast water. It also would be a better rod to take along on a trip to the tropics for bonefish, redfish, or to the US east coast stripers. A 3,5, and 8wt arsenal is very versatile.

[Opt]

Heh.... gonna get me in trouble talking about getting another rod. I haven't even gotten the VPS in my hands yet. (should be here tomorrow) XP's are being discontinued after this year.... mmmm 3wt

[BigCliff]

The XP's are great rods, but not what I would pick for a 3wt, ever. A 3wt is best suited to small waters and or small fish. The XP is a rocket rod that will cast a very long way and throw very tight loops to beat the wind. If you need long casts, a 3wt is not ideal. If there is lots of wind a 3wt is not ideal. An XP 7 or 8wt rod would be a great choice for salmon and saltwater needs.

Not trying to tell you what to do, I think you'd just be happiest in the long run if you set yourself up with faster/stiffer rods in the upper weights and slower/softer rods in the lower weights.

[Opt]

BigCliff-

Thanks for the advise on rod selection.

I just received my VPS 590 today. Very pleased with the company I purchased it from...quick shipping, and it arrived in perfect condition. Hopefully will be able to make a road trip and pick up a reel & line this weekend for it.

[fshfanatic]

Originally Posted by Opt

BigCliff-

Thanks for the advise on rod selection.

I just received my VPS 590 today. Very pleased with the company I purchased it from...quick shipping, and it arrived in perfect condition. Hopefully will be able to make a road trip and pick up a reel & line this weekend for it.

Get the reel and line from Steve (the full creel) get a great price for highend stuff. I dont go anywhere but though him. He has always hooked a brother up.