The Northern California Fly Fishing Board

and maybe I'll learn something in the process.

Here's my situation: I'll be hiking for 10 miles at a high elevation to reach glacial lakes at close to 11,000 feet. The trout will average 15"-18" with a possible 24 incher. There will be a lot of lake fishing from shore and some streams wide enough not to be able to cast across. Due to the fact that I want to keep my pack weight low, I won't have waders or a boat of any kind.

I have an Orvis TLS Mid-flex 8'4" 4 pc rod, but I want to bring a second 3 wt. rod in case I break the Orvis. I also want to spend $200 - $400, no more.

I was thinking that a fast rod might have more backbone to land a large fish, might be easier to cast a bit farther on the lakes and would be better if the wind kicks up. I also figure that an 8 1/2 footer would be better than a shorter rod.

Any advice would be appreciated.