I fish local ponds from the shore and sometimes from a boat. Im looking for a setup that is under $250. I previously owned a quantum pt accurist and a abu vengeance rod. Ive been looking at the lews tournament mb speed spool but I cant decide what to pair it with. My friend owns a dobyns champion series rod and he loves it, but I was also looking at the *** black casting rod any suggestions. I mostly fish texas riggs, weightless plastics, jigs, spinnerbaits, and crankbaits 

Forget the Champion with that budget unless you can find a sweet deal on a used rod.  A new one will wipe out your budget.  The Lews and *** Black will put you near the max for your $250 limit.

 

EDIT:  I have become a fan of Fenwick rods.  Lots for your money.   Take a look at the HMG line.  If you can get the Lews for around $100 off fleabay, then expand your options spanning from the HMG to the Aetos (when on sale).

Wait until TW has a sale is what I'd do.

Forgot to offer you a welcome to the forum.     So...........

Take a look at http://www.kisselkrafts.com, nice custom rods at a great price made how you want it

I'm gonna say either an HMG/Tatula or an ***/Tatula. Tatula can be found for 100 quite easily.