What would be the best overall rod and reel, purchased seperately, to make a baitcasting combo for under $200?

 

 

BPS Pro Qualifier and BPS Carbonlite rod.

Hootie

Reel : Speed Spool or Tatula

Rod : *** Black

X2 BPS PQ and BPS Carbonlite rod. I have about 4 of these setups and love them. Also a *** Black and a Tatula or PQ. I like my Carbonlite's better but the 13 is a darn good rod

Any fishing associate at a bass pro can build you the Pro Qualifier/Carbonlite combo for 159.99. Paying 200.00 would be silly. you'll have money left over for nice line and maybe even a rod and reel cover!

Really nice little setup.

Tatula/***.

Tatula/***.

 

I like this combo even though the *** handle is not a favorite of mine.  I'd also suggest looking at the new HMG.  Not familiar with Lews lower end, but the Tournament Pro is very nice.  The low end reels get good reviews here, tho, so I wouldn't be afraid to try one.