Im looking at things now and what kind of fish im catching. Right now my two main rods are both St Croix's. I have a couple Avids and a premier. I mainly throw my Avid 10wt and Premier 9wt. The avid has sinking line on it and the 9wt usually has Int or Floating line. I can't tell a huge difference between the $300 rod and the $100 rod. The avid does feel lighter and I can cast a little bit better but I get tired faster with that one, especially if im throwing it with heavy sinking line.
I would buy the new one they make the RioSanto and try that out in an 8wt. Im in the market for a new 8wt for this season. Im really trying to get a Scott but I would settle for a St Croix.
I catch stripers and blues. I would probably have a nicer rod if I was tarpon fishing or something like that. I get through with my St Croixs for now.
Also, they have great customer service!

Joey