Shane at Graywolf has some of the 8' 7/8 blanks already rolled up (dunno if you're aware, but he took over Mark's business).

I have the 8'6" 7/8 and it's absolutely bomber for damn near everything. I've thrown flies up to 9" (unweighted streamers) on it and it handles just about everything within reason.

I also have the 8'6 7/8 and its amazing, it can go light or heavy on flies and has plenty of backbone. Nice swing weight and doesn't wear you out when blind casting for bass and such. I bought it strictly for throwing big hair bugs, but quickly realized it was way more versatile than just for throwing top waters.