You might check out the Temple Fork Outfitter rods (http://www.templeforkflyrods.com/rods/). They all have lifetime warranties. This article might also help you when you're looking for a rod.
Templeforks are great affordable outfits. I learned on a 6 wt of theirs and have picked up a 9wt for musky fishing. I caught everything from smallmouth to Pike and big carp on my 6wt. They have a good backbone for casting heavier flies. You can pick up a rod reel (with line) and case for around $200 if not less. A place in Guelph called Grand River Troutfitters (they have a website too) carries them or on the net Wholesale Sports out of Calgary carries them as well. I got mine from there back when I lived in Calgary.
Good luck with the fly casting.
Just remember, when things aren't going well.
SLOW DOWN
its the best advice out there.
Keith