8wt. is a ton of power, something that will be more geared towards BC, AK, and larger rivers in the pnw with average size of fish > 12 lbs. I have a 6wt. (Sage Accel 6126) and it can bomb line, buttery, and fun to fight fish 5-8 lbs on (really fun for 10+!!) Depending on what run you're on, it all depends. Also, 6wt and lower don't have the ability that 7 and up do to throw tips (Skagit) as capably (but can definitely still be done), so this is your other major consideration. I think a 7wt. to start is ideal for 2 reasons: 1) still fun to fight 5-8 lb fish on 2) throws tips and floating lines effectively, allowing you to figure out your style (scandi vs. skagit (this is mainly entirely dependent on the river you fish!!!!)). Once you get hooked, then you can buy more rods, but there's no reason for an 8 wt. unless you're chasing 15+ lb. saltwater run fish.
