Pump - no offence meant, but it seems you don't know how to cast yet, and are new to learning about fly fishing. So...
Saltwater rods don't have to do the same task as freshwater rods. When fishing in the salt, long casts of 70 feet are often needed, and they need to be accurate. As well, it is usually windy so tight loops are needed to cut through the wind.
MAYBE when fishing for pike at spawning time you will need a long cast in shallow water, but for steelhead and salmon this is not the case. In fact a softer rod at close distance is better for fighting these fish. Thus the review is good for knowing who makes a good rod, but not necessarily for who makes a good shorter-distance rod. And since you are at the beginning of the learning curve I wouldn't worry too much about who makes the best saltwater rod (they are usually stiffer).
I have had 7 StCroix rods and still own three. They are certainly a fine company and stand behind their product (a lawn chair blow-over did break one and it was replaced with the newer model). Mystic makes good rods, I have seen them at the
MWFFE, and I would spend the extra for a rod that feels lighter. It might be hard to find one in Canada though.
Albright makes good rods, I have one and can list 5 friends who have one (5wt to 10wt) and are perfectly satisfied. I have spoken to the owner/pres a couple of times on the phone and he has been responsive and helpful. They are made by people who were formerly Sage then Reddington, then on their own. You could also get a
Flextec rod from Brittain. I have one as do 4 others, with no complaints. As ever you get what you pay for, so the less expensive ones are a little soft, but of the 8 rods purchased only one has not been as expected (but not badly made).
So, I suggest: choose a rod, buy a reel to match/balance, learn to cast, and work with it until you know how you really cast and what you really need/want.
