any recommendations for a fairly inexpensive reel?

How lightweight are we talking?

Personally, I would use a spinning set up for anything 'lightweight'.

we talkin 5-6 inch senkos. my accuracy on spinning sucks, so i wanted to try a baitcaster for accurate/no splash presentation.

Citica.

Do you mean a casting reel for light weight baits, or a casting reel that is light in weight for plastics, or a casting reel that is made of plastic and light in weight? ;D

Joking aside, casting reels in the $119 - $179 should be fine. This is inexpensive to me with regard to casting reels or better yet, this is the range you can expect great performance and longevity.

For 5" senkos, the citica will get it done and you will learn very quickly with it.  Note - Not a member of the Shimano possee. 

I think Citica would be a good choice along with the Pro Qualifier for the DBS for throwing lighter baits.  I have both reels and I just think its easier to adjust the mag break to compensate the weight instead of messing with the C brakes...

we talkin 5-6 inch senkos. my accuracy on spinning sucks, so i wanted to try a baitcaster for accurate/no splash presentation.

5-6" are far from being light, any reel can cast them.

I'd like to try a citica, but I dont want to purchase it to find out it does terrible with casting.

you think 12 LB mono would suffice for the job?

Don't worry about a citica - it will get it done.

Can get yourself a good deal on ebay.

BPS has a Wally Marshall reel that holds about 120 yds of 6 lb monofilament for less than $50 (the last time i checked). I use it for throwing small big-o and other lightweight cranks and non-weighted plastics.

I have it on a 6' BPS rod and I can throw a small big-o about 25-30yds with it.

Daiwa Sol

Raul, truer words were never spoken.

i think he just really really really wanted me to know. I got the reel. still working on it. I've never used VBS braking. still backlash a bit.

What reel did you get?  Don't be afraid to put all the brakes on to learn, it only gets easier as you build your confidence up...

Daiwa Sol

The best reel for that application is Pfluger Patriarch.

I don't think you will be disappointed with a Citica.

And 12 lb. line is fine for Senko baits.