If you are fishing a smallish river for roach with a stick float I would recommend the Drennan DRX 14 foot Float Rod. Takes lines up to 3 lbs bs and is a delight.
If you want to trot a river for chub and barbel, you can't beat a Drennan Tench Float. Will handle lines easily up to 8 lbs.
Sorry to push Drennan but they truly are superlative sticks and I can assure you I get nothing from Drennan for recommending them. They are in your price range too.