I was thinking about gettin a baitcaster reel since im starting to use more crank baits and other lures, but i have never used one and I know you can get your self into trouble with backlashes. I was looking for a decent reel for about $50, I know thats not gonna get me a top of the line reel but I dont do enough fishin to spend a whole lot on one. Would you recommend gettin a baitcaster? Is it worth it? or should i just stick with my spinning reel?

I can not name a reel in that price point. I am sure others here can though. I will say, I was slow to switch/try baitcasters. Boy was I missing out...good luck

I would recommend a Daiwa Megaforce or an Abu Garcia SilverMaxx. If you plan on throwing some of everything I would go with the abu, if you were wanting to throw jigs and worms exclusively Id suggest the Megaforce.

My brother has one of these and really likes it. I have only fished with it briefly off the dock. it was smoooth and casts well. Its on sale too

http://www.basspro.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Product_10151_-1_10001_104109_100001001_100000000_100001000_100-1-1

Extremes are on sale for 60 and last years Pro Qualifiers are 70 ar BPS...The Bionic Plus seems like an ok reel but I personally wouldn't buy below the Extreme

Extremes are on sale for 60 and last years Pro Qualifiers are 70 ar BPS...The Bionic Plus seems like an ok reel but I personally wouldn't buy below the Extreme

X2 on the Extreme.

I got a Silver Max on ebay for $20.00 but haven't put line on it yet. Planned on using it as a backup. Seems O.K. and have read good reviews.

I have the Megaforce and its a pretty decent reel and worked pretty well the couple of times I've had it out and probably can find it on ebay in that price range. The Daiwa Exceler was rated as a pretty good reel in a issue of Bass Master awhile back

i would check the flea market here on BR. i bought my first baitcaster on here for about that much, still works great. you also might be able to find something that will last longer.

bassmaster6

When I was read to learn how to use a baitcaster, I bought a Shimano Callisto. I hated it, but was determined to learn. I picked up a Lew's round reel on ebay for $30 and loved it. When I was more efficient at throwing a baitcaster I then moved upto the more expensive low pros. I personally think that the round reels are more user friendly and are more forgiving with the birdnests. And  you can pick up a decent round reel for less $$$

id stick with spinning until you get more into fishing and have another $50 to spend. i take it you have a baitcast rod already?

When I was read to learn how to use a baitcaster, I bought a Shimano Callisto. I hated it, but was determined to learn. I picked up a Lew's round reel on ebay for $30 and loved it. When I was more efficient at throwing a baitcaster I then moved upto the more expensive low pros. I personally think that the round reels are more user friendly and are more forgiving with the birdnests. And you can pick up a decent round reel for less $$$

I agree with the round reel suggestion...I learned on an old pro qualifier round reel and I'm glad that I did...The transition to LP reels was a little easier after fishing a round reel.  The heavier spools allow for easier casting....

When I was read to learn how to use a baitcaster, I bought a Shimano Callisto. I hated it, but was determined to learn. I picked up a Lew's round reel on ebay for $30 and loved it. When I was more efficient at throwing a baitcaster I then moved upto the more expensive low pros. I personally think that the round reels are more user friendly and are more forgiving with the birdnests. And  you can pick up a decent round reel for less $$$

Shameless plug...

http://www.bassresource.com/bass_fishing_forums/YaBB.pl?num=1237477179/0  

I bought a Sliver Maxx/Berkly Lightning combo from Dick's the other day. I fished with it all day yesterday and was suprised. I would recommend it and it fits your price range.

Go to bass pro or cabelas and they can get you with a good combo for right around 120 bucks.  Otherwise, there are not that many options in that price range.  70 to 80 bucks really opens the doors for you.  And you are getting a lot more for that 20 bucks.  If you already have a pole than I would say check online for some good deals.  If not Bass Pro and Cabelas is where its at.  There poles are pretty d**n good, sensitive, and have great great warranties.  

Daiwa Megaforce at 50 or get on ebay and you can get a new Daiwa exceler  for 59.00 it has 9BBs and its ALUM frame and there great quality by FAR the best reel you can touch for under 100.00

Thanks everyone for all their opinions and after givin it some thought, I think im gonna get a round bait caster instead of a low profile. Would you pick the round over the LP when you are first learning to use a bait caster? Or should i get a LP reel?