So I decided that I wanted to get into fishing more now that I got a bit of free time on my hands. The Walmart rod that Ive had for like 8 years is starting to go rusty and the reel is making weird noises when spinning. Not looking to break the bank but I am willing to spend around $100 for a new rod this black friday.

 

I got my eyes on this one https://www.dickssportinggoods.com/p/abu-garcia-ultra-max-baitcast-combo-16abgultrmx6ft9mhcom/16abgultrmx6ft9mhcom

 

Don't really know too much about rods but it seems like its got pretty good reviews

IMO for a rod in the $100 dollar range you should get a Dobyns Fury. Excellent quality rod and way above its price point. Don't like Abu's but that's just my 2 cents 

That is not a rod, it is a combo.  Are you looking to spend $100 for a combo or just for the rod?  A pretty good rod at DSG is the Quantum Escalade...a $100 rod currently on sale for $50.  That and a Pflueger Trion will meet the $100 total.  You should be able to upgrade the reel depending on sales, but from reviews I've read I'd say it is a good reel for the money.

 

Lots of good rods in the $100 range. St Croix and fenwick are my preferred brands but there are so many good quality rods at that price point. 

 

For reference, I recently got into baitcasters. I was going to buy that same black Max combo, then I read some reviews, realized it was so so and probably wouldn't last. Looked for good quality used gear and scored two really good deals,  For $160 total (Canadian, so about $125 USD) I was able to purchase a st Croix avid x and a Daiwa tatula reel. Food for thought. 

1 hour ago, new2BC4bass said:

That is not a rod, it is a combo.  Are you looking to spend $100 for a combo or just for the rod?  A pretty good rod at DSG is the Quantum Escalade...a $100 rod currently on sale for $50.  That and a Pflueger Trion will meet the $100 total.  You should be able to upgrade the reel depending on sales, but from reviews I've read I'd say it is a good reel for the money.

rod and reel for ~100

Rod and reel choice are very personal decisions, comfort and feel are unique to everyone. You should go get a feel for what you like and don't like. Some rods look great but are uncomfortable and awkward. 

 

 

9 minutes ago, Luke G. said:

Rod and reel choice are very personal decisions, comfort and feel are unique to everyone. You should go get a feel for what you like and don't like. Some rods look great but are uncomfortable and awkward. 

 

I gotcha, Well I dont think Im experienced enough to even tell a difference between rods? Should I just get something cheap for now then upgrade later on? or is there a way to test out rods at shops

 

8 hours ago, VABassFish said:

So I decided that I wanted to get into fishing more now that I got a bit of free time on my hands. The Walmart rod that Ive had for like 8 years is starting to go rusty and the reel is making weird noises when spinning. Not looking to break the bank but I am willing to spend around $100 for a new rod this black friday.

 

I got my eyes on this one https://www.dickssportinggoods.com/p/abu-garcia-ultra-max-baitcast-como-16abgultrmx6ft9mhcom/16abgultrmx6ft9mhcom

 

Don't really know too much about rods but it seems like its got pretty good reviews

I think it's a good combo you'll like it perfect for entry level and decent quality.

15 minutes ago, Burro said:

I think it's a good combo you'll like it perfect for entry level and decent quality.

Keep us posted on what you decide. 

3 hours ago, Burro said:

Keep us posted on what you decide. 

ended up getting a Okuma Stratus V for $35 and a Lew's Carbon Fire rod for $40