What brand would you get a combo? rod and reel, just reel, or rod? my price range is up to $40, jut trying to get a cheap rod for this year. 

not on your list but consider getting the Lew's American hero from Walmart. its $40 dollars and its not a bad set up. IM6 Rod and a 5 bearing spinning reel. Its my finesse setup right now.

I voted for Pflueger.  You can get the Trion reel for $40.  If you need a new combo, though, Gander Mountain has their Daiwa Revros spinning combos on sale for 39.99 from 69.99.  I haven't used them but have messed around with them in the store and they look legit.  Read some good reviews as well.

45 minutes ago, AustinHellickson said:

What brand would you get a combo? rod and reel, just reel, or rod? my price range is up to $40, jut trying to get a cheap rod for this year. 

X2. I only use spinning gear and my crankbait rig was stolen out of my truck. Needed something fast and cheap just to get through a tournament and I bought the Lew's American Hero combo from Academy. Pretty decent little rig. Only problem I had is I got a MH because I like my rod a little stiffer when throwing a crankbait, and it was definitely on the heavier side. If I could do it again I'd get a M. Same goes for Abu Garcia rods. They're normally on the heavier side of the given power rating. 

I'll second the Lew's American Hero. I just picked one up yesterday!