I like the x96js it has the perfect balance of line weight and action you could use it as a jig rod or drift rod for summer steelies and winter steelies or even silvers for that matter just a awsome all around rod! I love mine! The x96ls seems A bit light for big winter fish or a large coho, not saying it wouldnt work you would just have to use a little more finess with it thats all. My choice would be the x96js for me it works great. Something I found that helps me get the perfect rod is that I take my reel with me loaded with line and thread it through the guides and have my friend or sales staff hold the end of the line so I can put presure on the rod and feel how the rod reacts. I know it might sound a bit extream but if im gona drop $200+ dollars on a rod it better be for the one I am happy with. Of coarse ask the sales staff if they dont mind if you do all of this. Hope this helped just my 2 cents

My question has to do with no spinning rods over 11'......why is that????? I bought the 13', 3 piece ...3 years ago and found it to be lot's of fun to use on "jig and bobber/float" caught summer run steelhead.

My 2nd question is......what happens is "heaven forbid" I break 1 of the section of this 3 piece rod????