There are 3 rods I mainly use, all dependent on what and where I plan on fishing - An old Phillipson 5wt glass rod that my late father received as a birthday gift in the 60's, my Sweetwater 8' 4wt bamboo (mid-life crisis purchase - my idea of a shiny red mustang) and the new Sage X will be the "go to" rod as it allows me the versatility of fishing in many different conditions. Because I do not know weather I will be fishing small or big dry flies and possible need to throw a streamer, the RIO Gold WF line on a simple click and paul reel is the constant on all of my back country rigs. for leaders i use 71/2' 3x Powerflex Plus leader and have spools of tippet rings ranging from 2-4x. With this setup I am able to make long casts with a delicate presentation and be able to make short casts, and roll casts, in tight quarters.