What are the advantages to using longer rods (8′ to 9′) for casting for muskie and pike?

Longer rods are better for many reasons, but one of the biggest, in reality is due to the advancements in line. Because we mainly use superbraids these days … having virtually no stretch, the longer rods with tapering, faster tips become necessary as a shock absorber for big headshakes. They generally are much better for casting ease and distance; also for changing lure direction (triggering) as baits near boatside; and, they are much better for boatside figure 8’s or O’s at boatside … larger, wider boatside manuevers can be performed … especially important when fishing out of deep V boats.