I just picked up a barely used 7' MH Lightning Rod at a second hand store for $13.00. What baitcasting reel would be a good match for this rod? I'd like to stay at less than $125.00. I figure to use this rig for frogging or other topwater.

 

Thanks!

I have not used them, but e-bay has the tatula ct reel for $105 right now.  Great reviews, and an even better deal.

Amazon has those same Tatula CTs for $99 with free shipping from their seller ABCD. I have purchased several Tatula reels from them. They are a first rate company to deal with.

Nice find, Ron.  I am not going to disagree with the other posters....especially considering I am a Diawa fan....but another option is the Lew's Tournament MB for about $110 from ebay.  The PQ is often mentioned as a great reel in its price range.  I personally would pick the Tatula over it any day at $100, but if you can get a PQ on sale for around $50-$60 then it is another good option.

 

Some swear by the $100 Lew's, but I've no experience with any below the Tournament MB.  Another option is buying used off one of the fishing sites.  My first Patriarch XT was a like new one at 50% of its new price....which incidentally makes your $125 limit.  My last one was $65 with a few light scuff marks.  (The older blue model.)  It is a $250 reel.

 

I see you like acoustic guitars.  Love them myself.  Unfortunately my music ability is nil.  Two years of lessons, and I gave up.  Can't memorize worth a darn anymore.  My fingers don't want to move fast enough for chords, either.

 

EDIT:  Check the Flea Market on this site.  Do not stop at page one.  Some great deals on some very nice reels.  Also check that bass boat site.  Some states have bass forums.  Two I have used are Texas Fishing Forum and the New York Forum.  More traffic on the Texas one, but you have to get through all the other ads.  I have seen some really great deals on the NY one.

Ardent Apex tournament ($100) or Apex Pro ($120). The Pro is personally my frogging reel now both are extremely light reels and will cast a mile with no effort.

You can get a speed spool on the bay for under 75 bucks,just saying.

Tatula CT $89.95 free shipping on ebay  I have 2 of them great reels  The SV is 135 and may be the best reel for the money bar none