I am really into gear that performs well but doesn't cost an arm and a leg and the Cortland CL is one of my favorite rods. When people ask me advice on a starter rod or a second rod, the CL is always on my list.
On a related topic, I am excited to see the intermediate price range gear picking up momentum. More manufacturers are entering gear into the $100-$200 price range and the quality is really great on most of it. We are even seeing some fantastic reels in the sub $90 range now and that awesome. I think low price/high performance gear only helps our sports long term success and also helps break down the elitist myth. Give a newbie a Griggs fly rod and an Okuma reel and they are on the water for around $100.00 with some decent stuff. Mike
