Flydad,
I had a similar experience with my 11ft 5wt, initially I used a Sage 506 (made by Hardy in the 1980's and about the size of the Princess) and the rod was very tip heavy.
My next trial was with an old Lamson LP 3.5, somewhat better,,,,the final try was another old Lamson LP-5,,,,this is fine, the rod now balances at the top of the grip and it is very comfortable with single handed or DH.
I have been experimenting with the Rio Skagit 350 grain line on this rod,,,,,we now have the ability to have your back to trees and brush, and the rod/line will toss a heavy fly easily and smoothly. Leader is 3ft Amnesia (25#) 2ft Cortland LC-13, leader about 18" of .013, final tippet 4x.
Conventional lines I have tried are Rio Nymph WF6F and Rio Clouser WF7F both will spey cast fine however not as efficient as the Skagit for heavy flies.
Regards,
FK