I have a 9' 1084 and a 10' 1209 that I use in the canal. The 1209 cast like a dream with 3.5oz
the 1084 cast 2-2.5 oz nicely too.
love them both.
the 8' that you have might do okay with bombers but when those fish are bustin top and the guy next you can reach and you can't you'll be
definatly up grade!