So, I've decided to upgrade from my zebco 33 in the near future. I need some recommendations in the CHEAP range ($20-$30 you can get at Walmart) to get me started more seriously. I bought a Berkeley spinning combo once, but after 3 casts managed a tangle in the line that ended my trip prematurely and I returned it. Been fishing all my life, but I figure if I wanna get serious, and maybe increase my odds on the bank, I need something better.

If you want to become a more serious fisherman, I would suggest you invest a little more into your combo. 30 dollars is only going to give you a lot of frustration due to low quality gear.

I would, but I don't have a lot of extra cash. Being a dad, and sometimes being lucky to have anything left over after bills and household needs, all fishing gear is bought with saved up spare change.

I would, but I don't have a lot of extra cash. Being a dad, and sometimes being lucky to have anything left over after bills and household needs, all fishing gear is bought with saved up spare change.

I understand. What you can do is save a little more money, and then buy yourself a 60-70 dollar spinning combo. I know our Walmart has some decent spinning combos for around that price range. I used to have an Abu Garcia combo that only cost 60 dollars but it served me well.

Pfluegar offers some of the nicest budget combos you can get. If you can swing it, the Pfluegar Trion combos are very nice for $60. 

Check the upcoming July 4th sales.

Anything Shimano will do.

Go with a spinning rig if possible as it is easy to learn how to use it.

Also check out yard sales in your area. I have a Quantum cranking stick I got for $5 and I use it for pond fishing and fun fishing on rivers and lakes.

I'll echo the same thing, $30 and serious doesn't go together when fishing reels are concerned, unfortunately you get what you pay for and unless there is something discontinued for a new version. If you only got $30 then I suggest you look at Cabelas or Bass Pro shops and wait until they have a no minimum $5 dollar shipping or free shipping and get one of their $30 dollar reels because if they fail within the first year those two places will take them back. If it was me I would just put some money aside and be patient, if you really want something better just keep saving until you can get a reel that isn't a one season disposable and for $30 that is pretty much what you get.