Hey all. As of right now I’ve been using only two rods for fishing. One is a baitcast 6’6 MH for everything top water that I throw. The other I use is a spinning 7’ ML for everything else. 
 

I’m looking to upgrade to a casting setup and I know ML isn’t ideal for every under water lure. I’ve missed many hook sets because of the action but it’s the only rod I’ve had. I’m in the market for a casting setup that’ll go along side with my top water casting setup. I know usually 3 or 4 rod setups will cover everything but at this time I don’t have the budget for that. 
 

What would be the best overall casting setup for all non top water lures? MH? M? Looking to spend not over $150-$175. Also would be using fluorocarbon on this setup. Not sure if that makes a difference. 

You looking for the entire rig - rod and reel - for that price, or just the rod?

4 minutes ago, MN Fisher said:

You looking for the entire rig - rod and reel - for that price, or just the rod?

Rod and reel for that price preferably. I know there are some nice $100 rods out there like the Dobyn fury if you catch it on sale. 

On 4/12/2021 at 4:41 PM, Jake51823 said:

Rod and reel for that price preferably. I know there are some nice $100 rods out there like the Dobyn fury if you catch it on sale. 

I can squeak you in for that.

 

Plfueger Supreme 7.1 - Amazon for $62 (no longer made, so at steep discount)

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0773DMF88/?coliid=IM14ZMOMDJ4VJ&colid=2FGJVI8R82B0P&psc=1&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it

Dobyns Fury 704C - Karls has it for $109 - you want to pick the 7' Heavy/Fast from the list.

 

Puts you at $171 plus tax for a pretty good combo.

 

It might say 'Heavy/Fast', but the 704C is really closer to most other's Medium-Heavy...so the 'Swiss army knife' of rods.

I like that setup, that’s a nice one. Is the plfueger supreme worth it? Never heard of those reels for some reason. I really like the Dobyn fury rods, I also see the fenwick HMG casting on sale for $75 for a 7’ MHF. Do you think that tops the fury? Or still stick with the fury heavy? 

I have that exact reel in my arsenal - been using Pfluegers since the 70s - and it's been solid and dependable. It's probably the lowest price you'll pay for a metal-frame reel...and I'd stick with metal-frames as they're less likely to flex under pressure.

 

I've no experience with the Fenwick rods - and I see that price at Scheels. Others have said it's a good rod, but after using a couple, I'm convinced the Dobyns Fury fishes above it's price point...so personally I'd stick with Dobyns...and I bought three more to replace other rods this past winter.

I’ve got the hmg in medium heavy moderate fast. I use it for a lot of things that includes bottom contact ( jigs and Texas rigs  included. I handles a lot of different things. Maybe not the best for all but not bad at a lot. 

I appreciate your help. I’m also torn between using fluoro or braid. I have sunline defier nylon for my top water and I love that stuff. Also wouldn’t be tying on any leaders, would most likely use straight braid or FC. (Never been the one to tie leaders on, not sure why). Any suggestions? 

If you're not going to use leaders - stick with straight FC. Some presentations you'll use that rig for are slow and the braid 'might' scare the bass off. I'd suggest 15#-17#.

Appreciate the help. Looks like I’ll be picking up some 16# sniper for the new setup. Thank you.