shimano sonora 49.99 2500 series with either shimano clarus rods (66 med hvy or 68 med with extra fast taper) at about 65 dollars. great combo, great price, unbeatable warranty. well balanced and very sensitive. just bought this combo for a friend of mine just getting started in bass fishing. he also was wanting to throw shaky head in addition to a few other techniques with spinning rod. you will not be disappointed.