I spent a few days in Northern California last weekend fishing Hat Creek. My buddy, Bill, had recently picked up a Montegue Rapadan that was in beautiful condition, and he was dying to get it on the water. I took out my 9′ 0″ 5 wt Euronymphing rod. The weatther had taken a turn for the worse so we had cold temperatures and off-and-on rain showers. But, there were still some nice mid-day mayfly hatches. Stonefly nynphs and small soft-hackles produced the most fish for us over our three days of fishing. We didn’t land any large fish but still caught plenty to make if a fun time. 
hello Dave, good looking rout you got here!
I live in Northern Italy,(Bergamo to precise!) I have fly fished the Alps for trout and grayling since 1962; I use bamboo rods. I have never imagined french nymphing with 9′ bamboo rods. You must have a very smooth cast. Well done!
Tight lines,
Alex
Yes Alex, longer, slow action bamboo rods are excellent for French nymphing techniques. The slow action makes for nice smooth casts and nice hook sets. Softer tips make for fewer lost flies also.
Dave