What rod and reel should i buy. I have a $200 budget and would like a rod that is a great option for bass and also strong enough for some big pike.

$200 for rod and reel together or $200 for each?

Tackle Warehouse has an extra 20% off all clearance rods and reels.  Lots of good $100 rods and reels listed.  Ark Tharp, Veritas PLX, and St. Croix Bass X are all worthy rods @ $100.  Abu Jordan Lee casting reel @ $99 looks nice.

 

https://www.tacklewarehouse.com/catpage-CLEARANCEPP.html

Without knowing a whole lot of info, I would recommend you a Daiwa Aird-X 7ft MH-F Casting rod with a lew's LFS Speed Spool casting reel with 12lb yo zuri hybrid line. Assuming you are comfortable with casting equipment or your willing to learn. Great Value combo that is very versatile. Plus you would have some money left over for lures.

Crazy good deal on a rod...

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07JNMRSVP?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details&th=1&psc=1

I agree with getting a spinning M/F Daiwa Aird-X for the rod.
For just $20 more, you could get a Shimano Convergence for a total of about $70-80. That would be worth it, in my mind.

Then, a Daiwa Regal 2500 with 8lb mono on the spool and well-adjusted drag will have you ready to roll! About $150-60 for the combo, leaving you money for line and a few lures.

 

If you want to get close to $200 spent on the combo alone, upgrade the rod to a Shimano SLX M/XF. One of my favorite spinning rods.

 

 

Someone recommended the Lews Speed Spool. If that’s what you decide on, I have a one I’d sell you for a great price, that way you can step up to a nicer rod, if you want.

 

If you only had 1 rod, go for a 7’ MH/F.