So I just ordered one this afternoon off Ebay, now all I need is a rod to go with it.  I am looking to spend about $100 maybe a little more.  I would like a St. Croix but I am open to suggestions...

Shimano Clarus $60-70 IM7

Berkley Series One $80 IM7

BPS Extreme $65 when on sale

Shimano Compre $90 IM8

Cabelas Tourney Trail $60 IM6

BPS Bionic Blade $55 when on sale

You might be able to pick up one the Avids that are being liquidated. $65 is the lowest price that I have seen posted on the Forum. At anything around $100 that would be a great choice. I would focus on the AS68MXF or AS70MF.

You might be able to pick up one the Avids that are being liquidated. $65 is the lowest price that I have seen posted on the Forum. At anything around $100 that would be a great choice. I would focus on the AS68MXF or AS70MF.

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If you are going to fish softplastic for the most part, I would go with the AS68MXF.  I have the rod and the Stradic 2500 and love it so far.  The extra fast tip some getting use to but it can through a Senko a country mile.

So I just ordered one this afternoon off Ebay, now all I need is a rod to go with it. I am looking to spend about $100 maybe a little more. I would like a St. Croix but I am open to suggestions...

Well, the 2500 is a good size for throwing medium size rigs. 1/2oz traps, weighted worms, smaller creatures and chunks, maybe smaller spinners or buzzbaits, ect... What are your plans for the rod/reel combo??? Some brands may not have a specific rod for what you will be using it for. If you are just looking for a basic M or MH fast action rod, then there is a lot to choose from in that price range. It would be easier to pick out a brand or type of rod, and research the site and ask specific questions.

Sportsmans warehouse might still have some St Croix's on clearance. Reeds still has a decent selection at reasonable prices. Heck, buy a couple rods and save quite a bit of money. Find a buddy or two who want's/need's a new rod or two and order in bulk for some serious savings.

Hey guys thanks for the advice.  I am really just looking for an all purpose rod to throw soft plastics, small jigs, maybe some small topwater.  

If I were you, I'd buy a Fenwick HMX or a Shimano Compre. Best bang for the buck rods around. I especially like the HMX. You won't be disappointed in the sensitivity. 6'6 or 7'0 ML is good for the Fenwick HMX (the ML have good backbone and not as stiff as the M) or the Compre in 6'6 or 7'0 M. It's a great all purpose rod. I believe the Compre has a limited lifetime warranty too.

I own the Stradics in the FG model, the ones with the wooden handles. I would never trade my used ones for a NEW FH or FI Stradic.

Well I bought the rod today at Dick's, it's a St. Croix Premier 7'0 med fast #PS70MF.  Now if my stradic would just come I would be set.  I can't wait to give it a try.  I also bought a shimano cardiff 300a but I am not as excited about that reel.