Hello everyone, Just getting started. I have a Shakespeare Dimension 5030 spinning reel that my wife bought for me. What rod would you recommend for this reel? looking at the Castaway rods. any good? Thanks.

Depends on your budget. But a good inexpensive rod is a Berkley Lightningrod. My friend has one and I will be getting one in the near future.

BTW, welcome to the forum.

Welcome aboard!

8-)

Welcome  .  You should make a post in the General section so everyone can give you a welcome.  

I would suggest you buy any Medium heavy 6'6"-7' rod  in a price range you are comfortable with.  Thats a good all around rod that you can fish many techniques with and thats probably the best answer I can give without more specifics.  

Don't blame me when you have bought thousands of dollars of tackle and gear though.  My fishing addiction got started with a Shakespear spinning combo won a Ducks Unlimited dinner.

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

Welcome dude!

Welcome to the forum!

Thanks for the welcome mat everyone. Another? What line for a spinning reel 8lb. test?

Thanks for the welcome mat everyone. Another? What line for a spinning reel 8lb. test?

I like suffix elite.  I have 10# on my Stradic and it works great - no problems.  A lot of folks on here seem to like Yozuri Hybrid Ultrasoft.  I have not tried it but I plan to soon.