The other problem with sub-$100 rods is they generally don't have a lifetime warranty. (cabela's excepted) If you're willing to spend $150 or so, you can get a Temple Fork or an ECHO with an unconditional lifetime warranty.

Yet another problem is that you'll have to look pretty hard to find a rod under $100 that casts well. With Temple Fork or ECHO, you'll have to work hard to find a rod that DOESN'T cast well.