I have a Fenwick 9' 5 weight fly rod that I have used and abused for about 8 years. They are very durable, although a bit heavy. If you are new to fly fishing, dont want to spend a whole lot, and need a durable trustworthy rod, go for a fenwick. They make a good backup rod too, even for an expert or a rod that you will hike in through bush and down into steep canyons. Sometimes, those expensive rods are really not the best choice if you fish some of the places I do. Now get off your butt, get a rod, a box of flies and take them for a swim!