Hey man, I just saw this post. My first reel I got was a Spirex and it has preformed amazingly for a long while. As I was reading your first post, I immediatly thought of the Spirex.  As for a rod, (If you are close to a Bass Pro) I would look into the Bass Pro Bionic Blade rod (The Maroon and Red one, not the White). that is what I have my Spirex paired with and I have caught too many fish to count on it.  Those are $80. Very reasonably priced, sensitive, and a tough rod.  I hope you have better luck with your next rod. 

 

P.S.  I was like you and didnt want to start to try the baitcaster cause it seemed like a pain the tooshy with the backlashes and stuff.  It really isnt too bad. As you get better you can loosen it up and throw the bait further. I have trouble picking my spinning reels up anymore.  But, I understand wanting to stick with what you know.  Keep catching those fish!

 

I might need to check the Bionic Blade out, thanks for the tip.

 

Anyone have any new suggestions on a rod to pair with my Spirex 2500 reel.  The THIRD Sellus I exchanged for was defective as well, and when I ordered the rod from DSG's website, the order was cancelled as they were out of stock!

 

Needless to say, I need opinions on a nice medium-heavy rod for flipping and pitching worms and plastics in some relatively heavy cover, hopefully under $100.  DSG's also gave me a 20% off coupon for my troubles, so I was looking at the St. Croix Mojo Bass 7'0" MHF if anyone can provide an opinion on this.  I have an issue with setting hooks on my soft plastics so initially I was trying to find an extra-fast action, but I'm at wits end.  I'd hate to waste my 20% coupon (it's only good for 30 days), but I'm open to any stores as well.  Thanks so much!

Dick's should have St. Croix Triumph rods. I have a ML 7' that is very good. $80 too.

You should be able to pick up a st. croix premier for around $100 then. I would do that. Made in USA and has a 5 yr warranty.