I exclusivly use Powell Rods and Lew's Reels but I've been wanting to mix it up a little bit and explore my other options. 150$ for the rod and 150$ is my ball park. I could spend more for the 'best' but I'd rather put that money towards other set ups and tackle. I'm really diggin the new Curados and Tatulas. As far as rods go I like the kistlers, iRod's and Dobyns. With the expection of the iRod's cork grips are a must. I would like a full cork grip but those are few and far between nowadays. You see the full corck grip on 250+ rods but that's about it. I also like a clean classic look. Open to suggestions, you opions are apreceated.