Bigger water with larger flies...10 ft. for 7 weight
Bigger water smaller flies...9 1/2 ft or 9' 3" for 5 weight
This is what has worked best for me on the South and Henry's Fork of the Snake in Idaho and the Madison in Montana.
The long 7 weight is also my normal rod in the SoCal surf zone.
exactly what I was looking for as a gift. Thanks!!