Hello everyone. I'm getting ready to fish this spring, and I need a new rod! I don't have enough money for multiple rods like some people, since I am only a teen. I can only get one rod to go fishing this spring and summer! I was wondering if you could give me your opinions on what is a great relatively cheap overall rod and reel combo for me. (Baitcaster or spinning? Length, action, etc.?) it would also be helpful if you could give some specific examples, too! My friends and I usually fish for mostly medium sized largemouth bass, occasionally catfish, and medium sized sunnies every once in a while. All of your ideas and opinions are greatly appreciated AND I would love to hear what you think! Thanks!

All depends on your price range.

Based on reviews and such, I'd have to say a Berkley Lighting Rod (or an Abu Garcia Vengeance) with a Lew's Speed Spool. You can get away with a cheaper rod, but don't skimp on the reel.

If you want to go the combo route, I'd check out the Lew's American Hero combo. They look pretty good.

That is a great combo. Good product with a good cause. My brother has one and it's a good feel.

Some kind of spinning rod and reel, 6.5 foot or 7 foot, medium-heavy power, fast action.

 

Thats the most common starter combo specs. Some people choose medium power over medium-heavy, but since you mentioned catfish, i imagine you mean channel cats or something that grows over 10lb? medium-heavy might be better for you.

 

As for the actual rod and reel, we need a price to work with.

FYI if you get a baitcaster it won't be easy to catch panfish. Not impossible though

I hate admitting this, but I do fish for bluegill on my baitcasters. Me and the old man go by numbers, not weight. And they count, right? If it has eyes...

Thanks everyone!

I hate admitting this, but I do fish for bluegill on my baitcasters. Me and the old man go by numbers, not weight. And they count, right? If it has eyes...

It's not a taboo, but it's not really the right tool for the application. Unless you've got one of them fancy UL bait casting rods with finesse reels

I have one specifically for it. Minus the reel. It has a Lew's BB1HLZ. Works for what I throw on it.