Steelhead fishing with bamboo

Question
I just recently purchased a bamboo fly rod that is a 5/6 weight rod.  Would it be irresponsible of me to take it Steelhead fishing?  What would bamboo cast better Weight Forward or Double Tapered and should I use 5 or 6 weight?

Answer
Hi Darren,

I generally would recommend a 9 weight for Steelhead, and not less than an 8.  I don't know if it would be irresponsible, but you may blow it up!!!

I'm not sure where you are steelhead fishing.  Here on the Great Lakes you get into 10-15 pound fish on a regular basis and a shot at a 20 pounder.  Thats pretty big for a 6 weight.  If you think you may not hook anything bigger than about 5 pounds you may be OK.

Bamboo has a pretty slow action and it may be more well suited for a DT line.  I'd say a DT-6, or a WF-5.  

Good luck,

Marc