Consider calling shops around out in the Pac NW where they are popular and see if they have a last years model or a used one hanging around. I've scored a couple high-end Sages and my Powell 9 weight that was at way off retail when I lived out there.
Both TFO and Echo have some pretty good rods that are decently priced. I have a couple echo's that I really like, one of them I found used in a fly shop for $150.
These guys have classifieds, and more than likely there's some helpful individual in your location that would be more than happy to let you try spey casting/show you some of the basics.