When I broke my trout rod this summer I needed a quick replacement while I waited for my new blank to get here. I ran down to the local scum of the earth big box. They have an SA rod right now for around 25 buck that you won't believe. Its green and I don't even think it has a model name. Its not the best thing I've ever cast, but it's better than several rods I've cast that cost much more. Your friend could do worse to start with.