I've got two casting rods that I'd like to possibly pair up with baitcast reels to best suit their specs. The rods are:

 

Berkley Lightning Stick   6' Medium Action 

 

and

 

Berkley Bionix 6' MH Action

 

Not too terribly exciting options, but they're lightly used and I got them for free. What I am aiming for is to get some nicer reels for these and as I am able, upgrade the rods to better suit the reels. I'm open to current and older models. I'm not opposed to other brands, but from what I've been able to tell handling other equipment, I am partial to Quantum and Abu Garcia. 

 

Thanks in advance. Look forward to hearing what some of you think. 

Abu Garcia Black Max = $50

 

H2O Mettle (Academy) = $50 (can be had for $30 when on sale)

 

BPS Pro Qualifier = $80 (right now due to sale)

 

Lews Speed Spool = $100

 

Abu Garcia Revo S = $120

 

There is a quick list of probably every option you'll hear, in order, with a variety of price points.

Abu Garcia Black Max = $50

 

H2O Mettle (Academy) = $50 (can be had for $30 when on sale)

 

BPS Pro Qualifier = $80 (right now due to sale)

 

Lews Speed Spool = $100

 

Abu Garcia Revo S = $120

 

There is a quick list of probably every option you'll hear, in order, with a variety of price points.

Thanks for the quick and detailed response. It is very appreciated. 

I second the lews speed spool, the pro qualifier and the revo s

I have a 3 year old Quantum Catalyst PT paired with my 6' M Lightning Rod and think its a great all around set up. I use it for spinnerbaits most of the time, but I'll throw top waters, shallow cranks and jigs on it from time to time. It was pretty much my first casting set up and it was an incredibly fun set up to learn on and I still love using it. 

 

I know Cabela's has the Catalyst PTS on sale for $100 right now, but I pretty sure that's a salt water model so it's probably heavier. Check it out though. 

At 80 bucks the pro qualifier is a steal. That gets my vote. But the Revo S is also a good reel.