ARK,
Not sure what rod you're using. There are certainly some 8'+ rods out there that aren't up to the task (even some manufactured and sold as "musky rods"). In the last 2 years I've upgraded all my casting gear to 8' and 8' 6" St. Croix rods (PM80MHF, PM80HF, TM80MHF, TM86HF). They fit my style of fishing quite well and their performance has been outstanding. Just make sure the rod action matches up with the bait you're throwing. If the rod is too light, it will load too much on the retrieve and you'll tend to be out of position on the hookset. That will cost you fish.

I never really intended to spend the cash and buy a TM86HF (they can be a little pricey), but as it turns out, I use it more than any other rod in the boat. What a great stick!

Had a chance to test a TM86XHF last week. I'll have one of those for next season!

Good luck out there.