So I was at Dick's today picking up a few X-Raps, some line, and a few Storm Wildeyes (I can't complain...they're cheap and work great for me!) when I realized that I still need to pick out a casting rod for myself. I took a look at a few rods, and I must say that while I had my doubts about the St. Croix Avids and the "new" gloss coat (I've always been a big fan of the matte finish on my other Avid and IMX), I really, really like how they look and of course they felt great. I was looking at a 6'6 Medium Fast if I'm not mistaken, and I'm wondering if this would make for a good baitcaster rod? I'll probably be throwing a little bit of everything, but mainly some X-raps, a few cranks, and maybe a little of my heavier topwater lures.

I was really close to taking one home with me, but I figured that because my birthday is coming up and since an Avid would fit perfectly into the price range, I should wait a few weeks. I also figure that something like this I'll get at my local shop since the price is the same and if a certain guy I know is there that day, I might be able to cut a little deal. I don't have to worry about a reel, as I've got an oldish Shimano that should tide me over until I've got some more cash saved up for something nice and new.

So...I'm going to say that my price range is about $160ish or so. Does anyone have any recommendations for other rods in that price range that I might be interested in? I would love to get a Loomis, but I've never been impressed with the GL2 or 3 before. Thanks all!

take a look at a Powell or Dobyns rod in that price range. Both are excellent rods for the money.

For an all around rod i would recommend a 6'6'' MH/F. A medium action will do just fine though.

Graphite.

At least six feet six inches.

At least medium heavy.

Any name brand should do fine.

Look for sales for Father Day if you can wait.

As an "all-around" baitcaster, the Avid AC66MF is what I have and

would recommend, especially for the specific purposes you mentioned.

Although the blank is rated Fast Action, the tip is soft. This is a great

rod for working topwater lures and jerkbaits.

8-)

As an "all-around" baitcaster, the Avid AC66MF is what I have and

would recommend, especially for the specific purposes you mentioned.

Although the blank is rated Fast Action, the tip is soft. This is a great

rod for working topwater lures and jerkbaits.

8-)

x2

You can throw almost anything with this rod.

Well its good to hear that the 6'6 Avid MF should serve me well, because I pretty much fell in love with it as soon as I put it in my hands. ;D

On a side note, I'm kinda disappointed with the fishing section at my closest Dick's. I usually don't shop there, but coupon + no job + need stuff = I'll take a ride over there. I've seen better Rapala selections and more high end rods at tiny, local shops. I saw one, maybe two Loomises, and probably only 10 St. Croixs besides the Triumphs. I didn't see a single Shimano rod either, which kind of bummed me out, since I really wanted to look at a few. :-/

The Avid is a great rod in this price range.  Having said that, I own Avids and Powells and I would buy the Powell 683 CEF Medium-Heavy as an all around rod.  It is good at everything and I find it to be more sensitive than the Avid.  It lists for $169.  

SJex mentioned Dobyns rods as well, which are designed by Gary Dobyns, who also designed Powell rods.  Some say the Dobyns rods contain minor improvements over the Powells, but I can't speak to that, as I haven't tried these rods yet.