9ft vs 10ft 7wt

[NittanyBearcat]

I’ve always used a 9ft 7wt for river smallmouth fishing and have recently been looking at getting a new rod. I’ll be sticking with the 7wt but was debating whether to get a 9ft or 10ft rod. I know the 10ft 7wt is a popular rod among steelhead fisherman. With streamer fishing I never had a problem with the 9ft but was wondering if a 10ft would help in making longer casts. Recommendations for a 9ft vs 10ft for river smallies?

 

[whheff]

If you are keeping your old rod, a 10ft would be my choice. I had a 9ft rod for steelhead but when I got a 10ft rod it really improved my fish fighting because of the extra length.
Just my opinion.

 

[afishinado]

My smallie rod is a 10' 7wt and I wouldn't trade it for any other rod for SMB's.

I know I sound like a broken record, but cast any rod before buying.

A new rod of any length or weight that doesn't cast and fish well for you is worthless.

Good luck finding a new smallie stick....

 

[tomgamber]

I got a Moonshine 10-7 for myself for Christmas.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079GB4R85?tag=chuckingflu0b-20&linkCode=ogi&th=1&psc=1

I paid less than 180.00 (as they were transitioning to the new Drifter II )and it comes with two tips. Only had it out once and just for fun...cast the whole line at the local lake. Was just seeing how far I could go and looked down and 😳. I think I'll keep it.