There is a need amongst avid great lakes shore fisherman. Its for a proper bait rod that doesn't require an expensive custom build.

A bait rod with:
fine tip to monitor the action of our live alewives (3-6" freshwater herring), and keep them on the hook while making long casts.
with 1-3 oz sinkers used.
normally, 10-16 lb line is used
a thick butt for once the fight ensues.
Ideal length is between 10.5 and 11.5 feet.
Spinning style handle.
BUT..... a longer foregrip of about 6" and rear grip of about 9-11".

Custom rods have been made using bastons 11'3 2 piece (1355F).
But after a decent build, this rod exeeds $425 !!!!

Thats a bit much for a bait rod, in our opinion.

Space age materials aren't necessary, but the soft tip is hard to come by without sacrificing butt strength.

AND, if it can be a 3 piece, even better.

Can a rod in the 200-300 price range ever be made?