Looking for suggestions as I'm a real noob with the baitcasting equipment. I'll be getting my first baitcasting rod and reel this week. Looking for input on what to buy in terms of reel (prefer low profile as they feel better in my hands) also rod (brand and weight) and what should I be throwing with it. Obviously, since it will be my only one, for a while anyway, I would like something that can cover MOST of the bases. Would like to keep it under $150 or so for the rod and reel if possible yet still have a workable rig. Thanks in advance for the tips!

Citica D- $90 at Tackle Warehouse

Berkley Lightning Rod- 6'6" M F- $35 after $5 mail in rebate

$25 for some Senkos, Ikas, Power Worms, and Trick Worms

I'd check the Citicas out if I were you as well.

Was gonna say BPS combo but at that price don't even think about it!! Go with what njbasser said ! Have 2 Citica D's and they are GREAT and for 1st rod the Lightning Rod will work fine until you want to upgrade...

                             As Ever,

                              skillet

I AM gonna say a BPS combo.  Particularly a Bass Pro Extreme in a 6.4:1 ratio.  I don't have one of the rods but I hear great things.  However I do have one of the reels and this thing is incredible!!  Casts 1/4 ounce crankbaits straight into pretty heavy winds.  The reel is capable of it, just your casting skills have to be up to it also.  I can do it so I know it can be done though.  

I can't knock the Citica, it might be great but I've never used one actually.  They are bulky reels though and my BPS Extreme is on the small side so it comfortably fits right in my palm.  At the time I got it, I got a great price on it and that influenced my decision to get it.  But now knowing what I do about them, I wouldn't care if these things costed more than a Citica, I'd get one anyway.  But at $80 for the reel (sometimes $60 on sale) and $130 for the combo, this is gonna be very hard to beat and I'm glad they don't cost that much cause it's gonna let me get a couple more soon.