Salmo, the 8 wts. are standouts. I've tried alot of rods, as I've  worked in some flyshops, and have guide friends that are sponsored by different companys. The 8 wt. xp will stand with any 8 for a great big fish fighting  rod. They'll put a 350 gr. shooting head into orbit. I have a 5 and 9, too. DB's Rplx's were right in the ballpark.  I've gotta say, you guys have great taste in equipment.    I wonder if you can get a 10' 8 wt. in either line. Might be hard to find, but worth a look. Now I can't wait for the end of Aug. 
 
Charlie

...looks like xp makes an 810 and also loomis makes a cross current 810. I imagine both are excellent. An 8 weight is an all around great rod for many species. Some say its too heavy for steel but I disagree. Especially if you go 10' or bigger.

Charlie - your upcoming trip to the Sierra's is one of my "bucket list" items...

Enjoy...

DB, you probably went over the Donner Pass (of cannibal fame) on 80. I went over it in a blizzard last April in a rented Prius with chains. It was an adventure.  Yep, that's the Sierras in the North portion. The GTW is south on 395 about 160 miles, above Lone Pine. I lived and worked there in the USFS when I was young and stupid (for ever leaving). Now I'm old and foolish, I go back almost every year. If you ever have any questions I can point you in the right direction, I've spent a ton of time there and still have friends in Ca.   The Sierras are God's country in every best sense of that phrase.  I'll post some pics when I get back.
 
Charlie