I am looking to get a new rod and reel form bass fishing. I am looking for a rod/reel combo that is light and of good quality. I think I am going to go with the Shimano Core 100 or the Chronarch E for the reel. I am looking for a rod that is between 6'8" and 7'3" that is a Med/Hvy action. I want to have a split grip with a split reel seat and would really like micro guides. I am going to try and keep the Rod at or about the $250 range. Please let me know what you guys/gals think would be a good direction.

A perfectly balanced rod and reel is the Daiwa Steez reel on a G. Loomis 783c GLX rod. Live a little,man.

For that price you could get one custom made to your preferences.

Might As well go custom for 250.

for a rig around 250.00. get you a temple fork rod and a new revo s, or stx. it will catch about anything you want to fish for and be able to hold it.

You may want to look at the duckett rods. They have a 6'9" MH, a 7' MH and a 7'3" MH. Any of the 3 make a good worm rod. They have split grips and micro guides and run from $149-$169. I have all 3 and have been very happy with them.

Since you're willing to plunk down the cash for a Core, and are willing to get a Chronarch E also, I would suggest the Chronarch D. I think you'll find it a much better reel than the E model, but not as pricey as the Core.

I've got a Chronarch D mounted on a new split grip G Loomis GL2 853C, and feel that is a pretty nice combo. I have no problem tossing weightless worms on that setup- but maybe step up to the 854 for a little more backbone.

Mat @ Trinity Custom Rods built me a spinning rod on a St Croix Legend Tournament blank with split grips and minima reel seat and Alconite guides - and the craftsmanship is outstanding! with the micro guides instead of the Alconite will probably push you over the $250 limit though.