For future reference, the SC Sportsman Classic, held in March each year in Columbia, has numerous vendors selling rods and reels at closeout prices. I bought an ultralight rod for $5, only because it was too good to pass up. It has become my favorite for casting jigs around docks. I have since seen the rod for $19.95 at Wal-Mart. Not sure why it was so cheap there. It was new, still had the tags on it.
Monk is there also with his trailer full of every type jig know to the free world. Good chance to stock up on rods, reels, and jigs and a fun way to spend the day with family or friends.