longer rod makes better hook sets because of the line pick up. they cast lighter lures better. If you get a good balanced one, it can be an all purpose rod. Then of course you get the better line cushion for landing oversized fish or putting the beans to the fish in hairy situations. i learned on shorter rods....i fish with spinning reels that are shorter then my drift rod and i dont like them. my 2 cents.
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“If fishing is interfering with your job, get another job.”