Most all the Rods and Reels at or over $100 will be a quality item.
Rods: Fenwick HMG – Shimano Compre or Clarus – Falcon BuCoo – Carrot Stix – StCroix Premier – Abu Veritas – Kistler Carbon Steel – Lews Speed Stick…
Reels: Shimano Curado or Citica – Abu Revo’s – Lew’s – Quantum…
A 7′ medium heavy will perform well with most techniques.
Check out all you can and decide what feels best in YOUR hand!