Yeah buddy, do it right the 1st time!

Gonna put buying a spinning reel on hold till I get some time on the water with this set up.

Im flattered to be called out on a topic for a post. Discourage you from buying that reel I will not, nor can I really not discourage from the rod. Abu Veritas is an amazing rod for the $. Im sure you have taken a look at all the reels in the $200 price range, so the only thing you can do is your own personal homework. Im sure you are going Gen3 on the Winch reel, I dont know if there are many reviews out there for them yet for you to better get an idea of customer satisfaction. I dont know what brake system this reel is equiped with, but I know that I personally dont like Abu brake systems. The only thing that I would suggest would be to try out an Chronarch 200E5. I wont hate you for not buying a Shimano, but Im not going to let you in my clubhouse anymore, LOL. Good choice on the rod.

The Winch, if I remember correctly has the infiniti break system like the STX

I meant put a spiining ROD on hold.

Another site has the gen 3 Revo Winch on sale for the same price. I prefer the 3 for sure as it has the infini brakes so you don't have to take the sideplate off to adjust every time. I just ordered one myself. Pm if you want the site!