I need help choosing a rod reel combo. i have a $50 bass pro gift card so I'd like to stay at that price range. I'm a weekend bass fisherman and i don't know too much about rods and reels. The bait monkey has introduced me to lures though and made me get all the different ones available. I use a spinning combo now i think i got at walmart for 20-30 bucks but i'm getting in to all different lures and some like swimbaits are quite heavy 1-3 oz. I would like to stay with spinning if possible. I am comfortable casting with it and would hate to buy a baitcaster and not like it.. So i just need something that can handle heavier lure sizes.

edit: i see how alot of people felt like i do with baitcasters and once they tried they didn't regret. if that would be the best for what i need. recommend one as well. thanks.

Welcome to the forum. I would strongly suggest saving a little and using your gift card toward a higher quality setup. It'll be tough to find a good rod or reel alone for $50, especially baitcasting. Baitcasting and spinning tackle both have their place in bass fishing. Baitcasting is better suited to the heavy line and baits like the swimbaits you mention. You can get a BPS Pro Qualifier reel for <$100 on sale and pair it with a decent rod.

Yeah definatly save some more money. For $150 you can buy a decent combo. A Bass Pro Pro Qualifier reel with a Abu Garcia Vendetta rod would fit you nicely. Its almost impossible to find a combo for $50 thats worth anything. Save up over time...you will be much better off in the long run.

Save up some more.

Saving is tough!!! Money burns a hole in my pocket. Watch for their sales. Often can save 30-50% especially if they are closing out a model. I'd stick with spinning for the amount you want to spend. You will get better equipment. Good luck.

I've got enough (not as many as I want, ) rods and reels, but need lots more different lures. Easy to spend a ton just on lures.

Welcome. Lots of good info here. Lots of different articles you can read.

What you're looking for in the price range you stated would be a total waste of money , save up another 50.00 to go along with that gift card .

update:

after some research. i found the cardiff 300 round reel was great for beginner swimbait setups. lastly now i just need help choosing a rod. i'm pretty sure i need 7'+ but i'm not sure if medium, heavy, or extra heavy. i was at bps but the guy there just pointed me towards saltwater rods. which rod from their website can i pair with that cardiff 300. thanks again.