So I saw the Pflueger Patriarch on sale at Cabelas and caved. I picked up the 9530 version (it's a 2000 size reel) and I'm in love. Now I'm looking for a good rod to pair it with. Right now, my top of the line spinning rod is a 7' Dobyns Fury that I use for finesse, paired with a Mitchell 308 Pro. I like Dobyns rods, but I'm not a fan of the handle, so I'd like to try something different. I was thinking a 6'6" Medium Light might be perfect for a variety of fishing around my neck of the woods. Budget is $200 or less. I was thinking Fenwick or St. Croix, but I'm open to all suggestions. 

I would consider getting a G Loomis E6X in that price range.

But the new Daiwa Tatula Elite rods do look pretty cool, I'd consider those too.

Man choosing rods is hard lol, so many different brands

Fenwick Aetos, if you care about looks; I believe they were designed to go together -- the color scheme matches perfectly.  Here's a 9535 on a 7' medium of the last gen, which balances just right:

 

The reel should suit a new gen Aetos also, which runs $200, is a tad lighter, EVA instead of cork, different reel seat, and some red highlights and lettering, but otherwise the same blue.

Guess Im not the only one who picked it up on cabelas

I picked up two (9530 and 9535)  

 

I would go with the St. Croix Avid X but Mojo Bass is pretty good as they are using the same blank, just different guide set. Avid eye is pretty slim. I didnt get that cuz I use braid/FC. So I have the Mojo Wacky 

 

 

Fenwick Aetos or St. Croix Avid x is a good place to start. 

Ive been eye balling a 2 piece Avid X.

Thoughts on sensitivity?