If you're looking at a $60 outfit, personally, I would go with the Diawa Procaster combo for $55. I have not owned a Diawa for several years but loved the Diawa baitcasters I owned in the late 80s & early 90s. As for the rod, I think you're on the right track going 6'6" medium heavy w/ c handle. Spool the reel with 12 pound Trilene XL and you're ready for just about anything. This is a good choice for throwing a spinnerbait, jig, tube, topwater, fluke, senko, etc.

I'm not sure if living that close to a BPShops is a good thing or bad thing... ??? I think I save money living in Lexington (90 mins from any BPS)...

You can probably get yourself set up for the year with about $150. Good luck and good fishin'!