2. For an 8wt rod, what would be a good choice of line for larger trout,
salmon and LM Bass in lakes/ponds, rivers and larger streams ?

I would recommend a good (i.e. Teeny or Rio) bass bug taper. This is
my primary line on my 8wt. Throws big, bushy flies easily and
alternately, works well with smaller flies in the wind. If I need to
use a sink tip, I have about 5 foot of sink tip with loop to loop
connectors that I put on this. Works great.
Frank Reid