Try the Rapala Classic Moocher, very nice rod. Been running them for 2 seasons, no issues and nice action. There are two rods available, one is a light version and the other is a little more beefy. Was just comparing the Technium against the beefy version of the Classic Moocher with a buddy today and the Classic Moocher is just a little bit more beef. The new lighter version (I don't have one in hand yet) would be slightly lighter action than the Technium. What I like about them is the larger handle grip which fits my hand better. In the end it comes down to personal choice, feel and budget.