If you want a really good rod for a really good price try building one for yourself. D and E rods in Battle Ground have G Loomis overstock blanks and Lamiglas in Woodland has specials and seconds there. I built a IMX STR 1082 for around a $120 and my friend picked up 2 GL3 blanks of the same rod for $43 from D and E, so with the handle kit and guides it runs around $70 or so. I have fished with the intrepids that you are talking about and compared to the rods I mentioned above, it felt like I was fishing with a tomato stake. A Lami G1000 or Certified Pro on sale is only around $100 bucks. Just picked up a ST 1084 kit (not a Loomis) for my Dad for Christmas through Marty at Steelheader.net for $70. Do yourself a favor and leave the intrepid at the store and spend a couple of extra bucks for a rod that will knock your socks off in comparison!!!
Good luck and tight lines, Jeff