I don't know if this is the right forum to ask this but here it is any way.

I started fly fishing the salmon and steel head runs at the creek by my house when I couldn't go up to the cottage to do some bassin'

Right know i only have a beginners set up

I am looking for a new rod to better suit my needs. I have narrowed it down to a 9' - 9'6"  8wt rod.

Can any one recommend me any thing?

I am sorta looking at this st Croix --> http://stcroixrods.com/rods/default2.asp?rodname=62&section=fly

tell me what you think of it

by the way i am looking in the 150 dollar range

I would get a St. Croix Premier.  The 9' 8wt. sounds fine to me.  I have one that was suggested to me for smaller striper fishing so it should suite you fine, in my opinion.  

If you're interested in line, I would suggest the Orvis Wonderline.  It is awsome and silky smooth.  Stay away from the Cortland 555 lines.

Hope this helps.

The Premier is a nice rod. I have one and like it. However, the Reign you are looking at is a much better rod.