I'm buying my first fishing rod and reel setup of my own, and I'd like to hear what more experienced anglers think.

The combo I'm looking at on Amazon is:

KastKing Crixus Fishing Rod and Reel Combo

I'm planning to get the 7' Medium Heavy baitcaster, right-handed version, which is currently $107.

I'll mainly be fishing for bass in ponds and lakes, but I'd like a setup that's versatile enough to handle other freshwater species as well.

How would you rate this choice for a beginner? Are there any major downsides I should know about, or is this a solid first setup for the price?

Thanks for any advice!

If you can only have one rod, I recommend a spinning rod.

When you can eventually get two rods, I recommend a spinning rod and a casting rod.

The problem getting a casting rod first as your only rod is it really only casts the bigger baits well. It can't cast the baits necessary for the smaller species like crappie, panfish, and trout. Those smaller species usually make up the bulk of what is in ponds and small lakes, especially if you're limited to bank fishing.

In small bodies of water, most of your bass fishing will probably be done with lures weighing around 1/4 to 3/8oz and these will cast great on a ML or M spinning rod.