I really like the Field & Stream Tec Spec rods at ****'s Sporting Goods. The currently sell for $80. They are very light weight and strong. I've had the cranking version for 2 years and I use it a lot and have pulled in a bunch of fish in the 4-5 pound range. The biggest one on the rod was 6.4. As I replace my older rods I will go with these. I understand they are made by Shimano. At least that's what my brother-in-law told me. He has a couple of them and he also recommends them.