Hey my buddy just picked up a shimano symetre 2500 a few months ago but hes got it on a crappy rod. His girlfriend was asking me for a good christmas present for him and i suggested a new rod. Can someone suggest a few rods in the $60-$80 range? Any help would be much appreciated.

And i should mention he prefers shorter rods 6' and under for some reason

For the $80 budget Shimano Compre.

For the $60 budget Shimano Clarus ( Clarus rods are slightly heavier than Compres and less sensitive )

I've got 2 Compres. I'm extremely happy with them.

i have both a 2500 and a 750 symetre on st. croix avids.  If you are looking for a cheaper version, I would go with the St Croix premier, excellent rod. I bought a premier ultra lite for $70.  The st croix website has a very good rod selector.

brad