Hello,

I am new to bass fishing and fishing in general. I was given a 6'6" mh rod for Christmas. What would be a good starter reel for around $75.00.

Personally I would get an Abu Garcia Pro-max or a BPS extreme if you are looking to buy new.  Maybe a used Revo S or Citica if buying used.  Burley had a Revo S in the classifieds a few days ago for $70.

Simmons on e-bay has NIB Quantum Accurist PT's for $64.99 + shipping, those reels are well worth it, they were around $125-$130 a year ago. They are on sale because Quantum replaced them for 2009 with a new reel. Or Cabelas has there Prodigy reel on sale for $79, normaly $99. It is made by Daiwa and is built on the same platform as the TD-A, and the Tierra. IMHO it is a better buy than both. A Revo S is also a great choice, but I rarely see them in your price range, usually NIB ones go at least $90 and up, but you could get lucky and find one I am sure. And lastly keep your eyes peeled for a Shimano Citica 200D (or 201D if your a lefty) I have seen NIB ones go for as low as $75. I own all 4, and like them all.

Bass Pro Shops Extreme is a wonderful reel and they go for $65 plus shipping right now on sale on their website.  I have 3 of these, they're very excellent reels.  Smooth, able to cast fairly lightweight baits (for a baitcaster).  Aluminum frame.  It's hard to find that last one in a reel of this price.

Be sure to note the rod's specs and get a reel that matches the rod.

For instance, look at the line test and lure weight on the rod and make sure your reel is within those parameters.

Remember,, a low retrieve ratio is for power and a fast ratio is for speed.

Have fun selecting the reel and let us know how you do when fishing the rig.  

You can find NIB Citica D's for that price.  Shimano is basically trying to give them away since nobody seems to want them.  

Not a bad reel, just too big and heavy.