Looking at upgrading/exploring new products. The current arsenal:

All Baitcasting 

Mach 1 combo (Jigs and worms)

mach 2 rod w/ Mach 1 reel (chatter baits/cranks)

Pro max with Daiwa Aird X (Using for Ned rigs currently)

And have a Tatula 100 6.3 reel that I need a rod for.
 

Looking to pick up 1-2 reels and 2-3 more rods. Looking to be under/around $500 

Preferably no one item at or above $200

primarily throw Texas rigged baits and Ned rigs. Don’t throw cranks to often but do throw chatter baits. 

Not really brand specific but as far as reels go think I’d like to stay in the Daiwa/Lews/Shimano group.

 

Been looking at the LFS more Tatulas and Shimano all I hear is good things but have no idea what I’m looking at with them. Hearing good things about the SLX 

Rods I like the Aird X so far maybe bc the price is good but been intrigued by duckett and hear Dobyns mentioned a lot...but open to advice. The skeet Reese McGill stuff is on the cheaper end on some sites right now but don’t know anything about it

 

I've only used Diawa & Shimano reels. I don't think you can go wrong on either brand. I just prefer Daiwa reels. Most of my rods/reels setups were on sales/discounts so always keep an eye out on deals. Rod companies I have experience with are Daiwa, Dobyns, Falcon, Shimano. I would also mention if your using moving baits like buzz baits,spinner baits, bladed jigs you don't have to have real sensitive/higher dollar equipment. I would spend a bit more on jig/worm rods for better sensitivity/feel.