While all of the above may of useful replies, I gotta think that the "best" rod would depend on how you intend to use it. For example, you might pick a "best" differently for bass fishing than striper fishing, or throwing cranks vs. flipping jigs, spinning vs. baitcaster, etc. How do you intend to use the rod? May be folks can give you a better selection to choise from based on that info.

Andrew