When this popped back up I dug through the stack of rods leaning near my desk to find the right one.

The Fenwick EA86M-MS-4 (01G15BK) is the best low cost rod for hiking in.

8'6"
Spinning
4 pc
8-20 lb (feels light for 20 lb)

This is much lighter and better feeling in your hand than the others I've fiddled with, most people would be surprised at how good it feels.

All for $89.99 at Bass Pro, Cabela's and others.

I also have a Wright McGill bait caster, 9' 4 pc, but it's a bit heavier action, would work well for larger nates and kings.

Buying blanks and having them cut and wrapped can get pricy when there's good stuff available off the shelf for this purpose.