Budget 4wt???

[NCVirginian]

So I'm in the market for a 4wt for an upcoming trip to some smaller streams near where I live in VA. I've been doing some research, trying to find the best rod for the money.

What is the best 4wt for the angler on a budget, in your humble (and hopefully unbiased) opinions?

[Cold]

Describe the budget. It'll help people make recommendations.

St. Croix comes to mind...

[randyflycaster]

I would check out cabela's rods.
Randy

[Normand]

albright may have something on sale

[NCVirginian]

I'm really trying hard to spend less than $150. Quality is very important though. I understand that I won't be getting a top of the line rod, but I don't want bottom of the barrel either.

[skondolf]

Have you considered building your own from a kit? Usually you can get more rod for your money as you have to invest the time but you can build one in a weekend or so and it's really not hard. Hook and Hackle (a sponsor on this site www.hookhack.com) is always advertising fly rods on sale - pre-built AND kits. I've built numerous kits of theirs and have been very happy.

I've also heard good things about Cabelas rods but have no experience with them.

[NCVirginian]

Unfortunately, I won't have time before the trip to build my own. But I'm definitely going to keep it mind for when I plan the next trip.

How do the Albright rods stand up next to some of the other brands? I checked out their website and they have some GREAT DEALS on what I'm looking for, but like I said before I'm not willing to sacrifice too much quality just to save some money.

I've looked at the Cabela's rods as well as the Bass Pro rods. Anyone have any experience with any of the Bass Pro rods?

[Thunderthumbs]

Take a look at TFO and Cortland too. I have several of each brand and just love them!
TT.

[soloman]

st croix reign from Hook and Hackle.

[dpenrod]

don't know what you have in mind lengthwise, but the redington ct line has a 9' 4 piece 4 wt. that retails for right around $120. i have the 8'6" 3wt. and it's a peach. nice medium action. finish is fine for the money. the tfo bug launcher is an uber cheap rod, but a blast to fish. the 4/5 wt. is 2 piece 7 foooter. again, a nice medium action rod. i use a gpx 4wt. on mine and find it loads it just right for my taste. retails for $80.