EXFFPM , I personally won't/don't buy any rods over 40 bucks....i just don't see any real need. As far as rod size...i go with 7' to 7'9 max for trolling or anchor fishing in the Columbia or Willamette. 5501 C3's are my reel of choice and recently "splurged" on a 6500, My rods are Quantum XL 7' 15-40 heavy...kinda stiff i know....but also can haul a nice sturgeon off the bottom....paid 29.99 at Big 5 Recently got two Shimano Convergence Rods 7' 15-25 medium/heavy for $24.99 each at Big 5 also.....If you take care of them like any rod they should last quite some time.... on anchor of trolling there is only about 40 yards max of line out when a fish is on anyway.....not to worry. Yes, I'm cheap when it comes to rods. I only use 20# crystal ivory.

Louis