statequider there is a new range of shimano rods called revolution, they are the model below the blue water. 1 have been told they use the exact same blanks but use zinc guides instead of the fuji guides. i know the exact same rod you are after (because i also like it ) and there is the exact same model in the revolution for $100 less.. ($219 i have seen it for) just another idea mate.also with the reel, id say a 8000. which reel are you looking at getting? the best thing is to grab the rod and stick it together with a 6000 reel and see how she feels and then do the same with the 8000 reel.