12-01-2011, 08:10 PM
For a starter that won't break the bank !! Start off with a Garcia 4500C3, a vernable 'round' reel. Has great line capacity, easy to maintain, easy to adjust, easy to use. Pair with a moderate price range rod, but please avoid Ugly Sticks !!. Garcia, Fenwick, Wright Magill, etc all make good rods in the $70 - 80 range. Your whole outfit will be less than $150, but will be serviceable . After you become proficient with it, you can expand to more exotic models.