Concept:
The standard equation of a circle is
\[
(x-h)^2+(y-k)^2=r^2,
\]
where \((h,k)\) is the centre and \(r\) is the radius.
To find the radius, we convert the given equation into standard form by completing the squares.
Step 1: Rearrange the equation
Given,
\[
x^2-6x+y^2+8y+9=0.
\]
Move the constant term to the right side:
\[
x^2-6x+y^2+8y=-9.
\]
Step 2: Complete the square in \(x\)
\[
x^2-6x=(x-3)^2-9.
\]
Step 3: Complete the square in \(y\)
\[
y^2+8y=(y+4)^2-16.
\]
Substituting,
\[
(x-3)^2-9+(y+4)^2-16=-9.
\]
\[
(x-3)^2+(y+4)^2=16.
\]
Step 4: Compare with standard form
Comparing with
\[
(x-h)^2+(y-k)^2=r^2,
\]
we obtain
\[
r^2=25.
\]
Therefore,
\[
r=5.
\]
Hence,
\[
\boxed{5}.
\]