Rod Length Question

[stvandev]

Looking at getting my fiancee a rod and reel for her birthday. I was looking on Cabela's today and they have some great deals on rod and reel combos. Is there going to be much difference between a 9' and 8'6" 5 wt. rod? Thanks.

[troutscout]

I have an 8 1/2 ft 5wt Fenwick Eagle GT. It's pretty easy to cast but I think I'd like it even better as a 9 footer. That extra 6inches really expands your casting arc and I think that makes casting an easier skill to master.

[Salmon Slayer]

I have an LL Bean 6# that's 8 1/2 feet, and i think it's great. Although the extra six inches will provide that much more graphite to load during a cast, for a beginner distance won't be a huge issue.
On top of that, the shorter rod may be easier, both to manuver through the woods and to swing around.