Due to the loss of two rods & reels during the recent trip to the Keys,
I am in the market for a set of lightweight (8-15 lb class) rods &
reels. My preference on the rods would be to replace them with the same
Crowder rods that were recently lost. Made locally, with a lifetime
guarantee.

As to the reels, the ones that were lost are not missed. Those spinning
reels had some flex in the shaft connecting to the rod and I never
really quite trusted they;d stand up to a big enough fish. When looking
at my local tackle shop, the Quantum and US Reels brands were both made
in a place I'd rather not support with my dollars.

Does anyone recommend a well-made, preferably US manufactured light
tackle reel which stands up well to a salt water environment?

Price is not the ultimate factor, but I'd rather spend a bit more for a
US made product, assuming of course the quality is worthy.