wrote:
Thanks for the opinions.

Here's something interesting I just learned - not sure I should mention
this in public, don't want to start a mad rush, but - Winston has a
"loaner" program, whereby you can talk to your local Winston dealer and
have them order you a loaner rod, which you're then free to fish a
couple weeks to try out. The only cost to you might be what the dealer
charges to send it back to Winston.

Impressive...

Temple Fork Outfitters(TFO), and I believe Orvis will do the same.
Another rod company offered to loan me a rod, but for the life of me, I
can't remember which one.

brians