Even tho' I agree that rod prices are getting ridiculous........ after all, there's only SO MUCH one can DO with graphite, Boran and glass, I can't agree, either, with "owing a bunch on inexpensive rods, is better than owning 1 or 2, high priced ones.
When I started out, in this sport, (when fiberglass was the "new age-fly rod material"), I would beat my arms and wrist to death, casting the cheaper rods, but wasn't away of it at the time. I just thought "So, THIS is "fly fishing"!?!
However, when I saved enough to buy a really GOOD fly rod, then eventually got into GOOD quality graphites........... I could not believe how much easier it was to cast, how little effort it took, to learn and master new casts, etc. To me, anyway, there's a world of difference in enjoying this sport, when the equipment you use is of good quality. NOT "top of the line", or even "The most expensive", just GOOD quality and GOOD quality cost more than $100.00.
Anyhoooooo................... that said..........................
6wt. 10'-Thomas & Thomas
5wt. 9'-Thomas & Thomas
5wt. 9'-Sage XP
4wt. 9' Sage XP
3wt. 9' IM700
4wt. 9' IM700
5wt. 9' Sage 4-pc. (travel rod)
4wt. 9' Sage 4-pc.(travel rod)
"Orvis One Weight"
3wt/4wt/5wt.s I've built myself on Lamiglass, Winston, Sage and Scott blanks. (5 rods total)