Ive decided to get myself an early christmas present and after a bit of research and review reading I have gotten an idea of what Id like.

Im trying to keep it under $140....

Its gonna be used mainly for texas rigging and lipless cranks..

Please give opinion on the set-up.

6'9 Abu Garcia Veritas

Okuma Hardstone spinning reel 5:0:1

Thanks guys!

Lamiglas Excel --> http://www.***.com/Lamiglas_Excel_Bass_Series_Spinning_Rods/descpage-LEBSRS.html

and

An ABU Cardinal 500 ALBi  --> http://www.***.com/Abu_Garcia_Cardinal_500_ALBi_Spinning_Reels/descpage-AGC5I.html

Should end up right about $140 and at Tackle Warehouse shipping is free

To be honest, IM pretty set on getting the Veritas.

Right now Im just trying to find a reel that cost no more than $45.

Im going mostly on reviews.

But..Im still open to any suggestions.

IMO, Abu's rods so far are all flash, no cash.

For the price there are much better rods.

But if your set on the Veritas, get it.

And if you need a reel under $45,

Just go to Wal-Mart and pick up an Abu Cardinal reel. They ring in at exactly 45 iirc.

But who do you think they rank up as far as quality goes??

I mean...I know I cant complain too much over a $45 reel but..

The ABU at wally world is the best you can get for the price, hands down

The Abu Cardinal and the Pflueger President are great reels.

They are a little out of your price range, but they are worth every penny.

I have looked at the Abu Cardinal a bit.

I think Ill go with that instead. Thanks guys!

If you have a chance to get it in your hands before purchasing it, it would help a lot.

Some peoples preferences may not match yours.

IMO with the veritas being new this year i am skeptical of those rods. I think they may have a few kinks to work out.

get the Daiwa Prcaster for $30 on sale from TW and get a better rod to boot

I agree the Abu is the way to go for a reel and the 602ABL a $80 reel can be purchased for $45 at the Purefishing outlet website.( ffo-tackle.com )

this. i have the 602 that i picked up from ffo and that thing has hauled in some decent sized peacock and largemouth bass with out a single hiccup. i have it on a light power shimano clarus. its a realllly fun set up.