Hello everyone!

So my wife just introduced me into fishing while on vacation at a lake. She just bought us some cheapo $20 rod/reel combos from Walmart. One of them being a spinner and the other a baitcaster. I have to say I have throughly been enjoying fishing some catfish and a random mussel (I don't understand) releasing them after unhooking them. I think i want to invest a little bit more into the hobby but not sure where to go. Trying to get in contact with my friend to see what the bigger fish population is in northern Virginia so I can have a better direction to aim towards.

Are there any rod / reels deals for Father's Day that would be suggested for fresh water fishing, not on a boat, baitcaster reel, in the $150~ price range? I think there are some lakes around here that have bass.

Thank you all in advance! I love this site there is just so much information!

First off, welcome to the forums. Be sure to make your way over to the introductions section at some point.

Second of all, your wife got you into fishing!? It sounds like you've got a keeper there!

Third to answer your question, there's a decent deal at BPS right now with their Pro Qulaifier Reel and Carbonlite rod. You can get the combo for$159. I've heard good things about the rod, and the reel is great. I'd start off with the 6'6" medium heavy power fast action. This should be one of the most versatile setups out there for bass fishing. If that's a little too much after tax and shipping, maybe buy the reel and look for a 6'6" medium heavy Jimmy Houston casting rod at Walmart if they still have them. If not my 3rd choice would be a Berkley Lightning rod.

Congratulations on the wife.  Check out fishing factory outlet for some awesome deals.