The Okuma rods are heavy yes, but they are perfect for baits like the huddleston, stocker trout, optimum, etc. I've caught dozens of fish this year on my Okuma Heavy and you just can't beat it for the price.

If you bought the Okuma heavy for $89, maybe you could swing a Calcutta 400 to put on it. That'd be close to $300 price wise but it would be a great setup. I don't know what problem you had with your Cardiff but I still think the Cardiff 300A is a great buy. A Cardiff 300A with the Okuma Heavy is the best bang for the buck IMO.