Tinman I have the same problem with some 9 wts especially fast action rods. I now use an 8 wt penn international 95% of the time. It works great for me and my arm doesn't take a pounding. I have a lamiglass 9wt that is a medium action that fishes nicely without arm discomfort. If you want to stay with a nine try a slower rod otherwise go eight all the way.
shadfreak
shadfreak