I know I'll be in the minority here but I think the best bang for the buck would be the Fenwick Elite Tech Smallmouth spinning rod, the one that matches up nicely would be the 6'9" medium light fast action rated for line 4# to 10# with a lure rating of 1/16oz to 5/8oz. The rod lists for $129.99 but you may find them slightly less expensive but it really doesn't matter as that rod is more than worth the retail all day long. You could fish shaky heads, drop shots, tubs and small jigs as well as worm fish. I have the 6'9" medium power, extra fast action spinning rod and loved it so much I got the 6'10" MH/MF casting rod too! Take a loke, well within your price range and something you'll be very happy fishing with, it is the most sensitive rod I every used in its price range and the reel seat was the most comfortable I ever put my hands on.