St. Croix, Cabela's Fish Eagle, or LL Bean are your best choices for an economical rod. I'd get an 8 wgt for best all around use. But then, I'm one of those guys that has them from 3 through 10 wgt, so I may not be the best guy to talk. :-)

I don't care much for the Lamiglas's, but I haven't used their more recent models, so my opinion may not be valid.

I agree with the other guy, Scientific Angler or Ross is a great value for a reel.

If you think you are only going to be going for summer fish with a floating line, you might consider going lighter, and getting a 7 wgt. If you think that winter fish are part of the program, with the attendent sinking lines, stay with the 8 wgt. Also, if chummies are part of the mission stay at least with the 8 wgt, and consider a 9.