I currently have more bait casting rods than reels. I need something for my flipping stick. I just spent a bunch of money at bass pro and academy  and a local bait shop on stuff that was on clearance and on sale.  As a beginning teacher, I don't make much money and cant afford a high priced reel. I recently got a Revo S and Veritas for jig and plastic fishing and then I got all of these baits on sale. So, I am trying to cut back, but I do want a reel for my flipping stick, and as a backup in case one of my older well used reels decides to quit on me this year. Would anyone recommend the Laguna?  I have read quite a few favorable reviews but thought I should ask my friends here on BassResource. I think I would get the 7.1:1 gear ratio since nearly all of my others a 6 something or others, besides my deep cranker. What you all think? I dont wanna spend more than $60

If you like Daiwa you could probably find an Exceler for that price. A lot of people really seem to think the H20 Mettle is a good value and those are only $50 (sometimes less on sale). I almost want to buy a mettle just to see how good they are since some fairly knowledgeable people have said they are pretty darn good for the $.

My friend just got the laguna, and it is fantastic. It keeps up with my tourney pro, and costs much less. Awesome reel for the price