This is a very interesting thread. I will throw my views in here also.

I am both a warm water and cold water fly fisherman. When I first started fly fishing in the 80's, I just got a real cheap fly rod combo. It got the job done and I was happy.

Then I moved to a Cabela's rod again, a low end rod I used for both trout and pan fish.

A few years back I got a low end St. Croiz, again a nice rod, I use for everything.

I am now researching and will probably be getting a new rod in the next few weeks. I am looking a rod in the $100-200.00 range that will have a lifetime warranty. I think I have the company and model figured out. I wanted a 4wt. rod and again will use if for both warm and cold water fishing.

I enjoy both types of fishing,have taught my kids and am now teaching my granddaughter to fish. They love it that mom is interested in this. I see no reason to spend tons of money on a fly rod when I can get the job done on the rods I have been getting. I practice catch and release and hope to enjoy this hobby for years to come.