Don't Carrot Stix break a lot. I have heard that Carrot Stix are sensitive, but break really easily. I also know for certain that the warranty program is complete bs.

 

The warranty progam was so messed up because they switched companies, and there was confusion about the new company honoring the old company's warranties.  And about them breaking, I've heard that too (all the time) but, if you look you can find people breaking every other brand of rods (except Ugly Sticks).  They really are great rods for a good price.  Take it from somebody who has used one for over 4 years with no problems, I couldn't be happier.  And  they are super sensitive and light.  Ducketts seem heavy compared to a Carrot Stick. 

 This^^

You can find $200 rods for $100-120 all the time if you want to put in the effort to find them and have patience. I got my Gen 1 cumara for $100 when the new models came out, Got a Powell Endurance series for around $140 when they're normally closer to $200. Just got a new Okuma swim bait rod on amazon a couple days ago for $95 when they're normally $140.

 

I saw a brand new GLoomis GL2 sell for $107 on ebay when they are normally 200+ (was kinda ticked when i missed that one)

 

I have never paid full price for a rod and I don't buy used ones either. you just have to keep an eye on Ebay & Amazon, also the sale sections of sites like Tackle Warehouse, Tackle Direct...etc.  you can find some killer deals.

^^^^I've gotten some great deals off fleabay, got two Duckett rods one micro magic and one macro, both for under $100 and that includes shipping!

Bass Pro Extreme unless you can get a more expensive rod on sale.  

I have some 15 year old Bass Pro Shops Extreme rods that are still good but that's probably because they haven't been used for 12 years.  I liked them way back when.  

Or you could check out the Phenix Maxim rods.  

I use all Phenix M1 rods now so don't know much about the Maxim but have heard good things.  

You can also usually find Quantum Smoke rods for sale @ $99.  Super light weight and feel good if you like micro guides. 

Veritas 2.0. Abu Cust Service is the best. Bought a rod online and one guide looked like it was slightly off. I sent in a couple pix and 4 days later had a new rod at my door.