Another vote for the President.  I don't like spinning reels.  I like my President.

15 hours ago, Evan K said:

 

Funny, I had one of those $15 Shimanos and it was the worst reel I'd ever used. And I was used to $10-$30 gear back then too. Really put me off of Shimano as a whole.

I would second (or third or fourth) the President recommendation. Super reel for the money, and it's been that way for years.

Really?  I'd have to say the 4000 model is a bit bulky, but outside of that I haven't had any problems with either of them.  I guess for that price there's bound to be some inconsistencies

If you are patient you can get a good deal on a used reel on eBay. I have a Pflueger President rod and reel that I picked up for $50.00 that is brand new. I also have a Shimano Saros (Retail around 140.00 that I got for less than $60.00 including shipping from eBay.) With your budget it;s do-able. That being said, I have NO ISSUES with Pflueger spinning reels.

On 1/13/2016 at 12:31 PM, RedHeadAngler said:

 

The Sedona is a great reel at that pricepoint and would be the one I would recommened.  I'd actually even consider the Shimano Solstace that Cabela's has on sale right now for only $25.

4 hours ago, Jake the Cake said:

Really?  I'd have to say the 4000 model is a bit bulky, but outside of that I haven't had any problems with either of them.  I guess for that price there's bound to be some inconsistencies

I guess I should add that this was a number of years ago, so I doubt it's the exact same model.

On 1/13/2016 at 5:04 PM, smallie.mike said:

Pflueger trion or president! Supreme if you could find one on sale. For your price range I'd stick with pflueger, I'm not a fan of any shimano spinning reels under the stradic. 

X2

Can't go wrong with the president.  I've had issues with my saharas.

I would say the Shimano Sedona and Pflueger President. Can't go wrong with either reel

The president is probably the best bang for the buck out there spinning reel wise. Down the road if you want to treat yourself I really like the Stradic ci4.