I am looking for a rod that is on the shorter side to fish tight situations and will travel nice when its on my back. But i dont know if an IM6 will be strong enough.

Yes it will. Don't put allot of emphasis on the rod rating. It's just a number and not a very good one since it will vary from mfg to mfg. it's also used to covey sensitivity more than strength.

I remember when IM 6 was the top of the line Loomis rod. Actually it will be stronger than most of todays wonder rods which are quite brittle and delicate compared to IM 6, no matter all their claims of wonder resins and such.

sounds like you looking for a travel rod? or just a short 2 piece rod that 5' or 5'6"??

only way to get a travel rod that's any good is to have it built. just my opinion anyway.

amtac traveler rod blanks, hands down awesome. http://www.americantackle.us/blankstraveler.html

i don't know whats out there really for travel rods but all the ones Ive ever held and played with at stores have felt like travel rods. just blaaa would rather have a real rod.. not the case with those blanks and built properly, Ive done a few, for trout, bass, spinning and casting and there heavier rated model makes a nice light tackle saltwater travel rod.. really nice rods to have under the seat of your truck for the get out of work early days.

That sounds like a good experience and a lot of fun. I dont think i have the time and am up for that challenge yet. I was going to build a fly rod but decided not to. I plan to in the future too, and may have to use one of the rod blanks you suggested.