I'd like to second the comments on the Cabelas 3 forks 3 piece 3 weights. I own several 3 wts (St. Croix, Orvis, Lamiglass) and the $50 Cabelas is one of my favorite rods that I reach for most often.

I have cast this particular LL Bean rod and it is a good rod, but for MY casting style, I could not tell a bit of difference except for the price tag. Now, there is a difference with the other manufacturers mentioned above, but the Cabelas just "feels right" when I cast it and can't help to grin when I think it's "only a $50 rod" after landing 50 bluegill in an afternoon.