Decided to go with the Redington CT as a new creek rod. Only $150, and it came with a rod tube, unlike the TFO.
Took it out to my secret spot yesterday for a ten hour hike and fish. Probably covered 8 miles of water.
I'm not an expert, but this rod is sweet, very smooth and soft casting. Way better feel than the old Crosswater I broke last month.
Oh, and the fish were still happy to play. Plus, saw some wild turkeys and lots of wildflowers, sticker bushes, and POISON OAK everywhere.
John