so I get to go to bps this weekend for the first time on fathers day. taking the family. I have been wanting to visit for a long time. my wife gave me a spending limit of 300 dollars. any suggestions on what I should look into. I look at the catalog and don't even know where to start. I really want a great jig rod and reel but don't think I can squeeze the one I want for 300. either a duck or abu with revo reel. any suggestions would be great. ps. love the site, great posts by all. thank you

You should take a look at the Carbonlite rod, hear great things about them.  If you wanted my opinion/experience, I'd go for a Shimano Compre over a Veritas.  The Compre (own both), to me is a slightly more sensitive.  (I've used both as jig and worm)  Of course it is all subjective (sensitivity), my Compre is paired with a Citica G.  However, since this is a bottom contact rod, I'd suggest you put more money into the rod than the reel imo.  Take a look at the St. Croix Avid since you're going to Bass Pro Shops, they go for 180 and then put a BPS Pro Qualifier on it for 100.  You can also get a Carbonlite/PQ Combo too for 160.  I just took a look, the Carbonlite is actually on sale (online) so you maybe able to get a price match at the store if they aren't on sale there. 

For $100 at Bass Pro I would buy a carbonlite rod.  They are really great for the money.  If you don't limit yourself to Bass Pro, then for the same $100 ***'s *** Black is an absolutly phenomenal rod for a c-note or less.

 

For $150 the Ducket's are very nice all around rods.  I just dont know that I am sold on micro guides.  Tried 'em and don't like 'em.

 

For a bit more on the rod, as mentioned above the Avid's are really nice but firm action.  In my opinion the Avid is the point at which St. Croix rods get away from "bargain for the masses" and become "quality".

 

Then find a reel that fits your hand and you like it.  We all argue about them on here but honestly for $100-200 there are alot of good reels out there.

 

Have fun!

Don't know what all your BPS will have in stock, but if you can find a St. Croix Avid in the specs you are looking for, I would go for that. Should run you about 190. I'm a big fan of the BPS Pro Qualifiers, so if you got one of those, you'd be right around 300.

I do not have much suggestions but make sure your family understands that it will take time in the store.  It's like shopping with the lady at the mall.  You will want to look at everything.

Congrats.  I'm making the same father's day trip this weekend.  Stopping at my first BPS in the Finger Lakes.  I'm hoping that the freshwater tank keeps the kids busy while I shop.