JimG wrote:
Seeking brand/model/retailer suggestions for 4-piece, 5 wt, 9 ft rods.
Plan to buy 2 and give them as gifts. Budget is around $200 each for
rods alone, or $300 each for rod/reel/line combos.

Recipients are advanced beginners. Rough handling is expected.
Primarily will be used in backcountry on small streams, mountain
lakes. Will be mostly fishing dries, dries with droppers, and BH
nymphs, sizes #16-20.

My research to date is pointing to Sage, TFO, Redington as
possibilities. But I don't see a clear choice.

Suggestions would be much appreciated. TIA.

Jim

Suggest looking at TFO TiCr 5wt 9'. Decent rod for the money. Dead hit
on price point. $25 full replacement lifetime warranty.

Several OK reels in that price range, but a couple of friends of mine
use Ross Flystart reels and Lee Wulff Triangle Taper line. They like it.