After trolling the forum for a few weeks I finally got around to registering.  I read many of the posts on here regarding good entry level baitcasters, and after some research I made my way over to BPS today.

The sales rep was very helpful, and I ended up walking out with an Abu Garcia Revo S($109) and a BPS extreme 6'6" MH rod ($100 reg price).  I told the rep that trying to get back to BPS for the big sale coming up would be a huge inconvenience (it's an hour and a half from my house) I was told that I could get the rod for the sale price (40 dollars off).  So I walked out spending $170 for the two items, which was right where I budgeted.

Needless to say, the rod is sittin in a corner at my house and I'm staring at it, waiting to get out to the yard tomorrow and start practicing.  Just wanted to drop in and say hello, and thank the many members for the posts I read that helped me become more informed than when I began.

You picked an EXCELLENT reel to start out with. That is the EXACT combo i started baitcasting with and i still use it. Good luck and practice practice practice.

Welcome!  8-)

You picked a great first combo.

Welcome!  

What part of the state are you in?  

Welcome aboard!

I think you will feel right at home. We have a few Texans around here!

8-)

Well, I'm originally from the Houston area in Texas, but I'm actually living in Winston Salem, NC right now.

Welcome aboard!

I think you will feel right at home. We have a few Texans around here!

8-)

Just a few  .

WELCOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I'd say you made a good buy there.

Welcome.

Sounds to me like you made an excellent choice in equipment and you are about ready! welcome aboard and these guys are great and really helpful....even if some of them are from Texas, ;D