Hi Jay,
Just saw your reply and I need to disagree with u on a couple of points. #1 I would buy the best rod I could afford whether a beginner or not. I bought a Redington when I first started and now it is a $250.00 dust collector as my RPLX is just an awesome casting tool. #2 I think that there are alot of great deals on excellent used tackle but agree that one should go out and cast alot of different rods before choosing. I bought my RPLX 30% off list and had I waited a little longer I could have saved 40%. At 40% a RPLX10 can be had for $265.00. I say buy it and u will have a great rod for the rest of your life and could always sell it if u decide to later on. No one wants my Redington which is now brand new and never casted(broke the old one)even at 30% off. I know that I could sell my Sage tomorrow and get back what I paid for it and I have enjoyed casting it a whole lot more. I have also enjoyed my Battenkill 10/11 and feel it is a great reel for $135.00.
Thanks for listening.
Tom