I have a young(er) friend that has been asking me about Bass Fishing. He has a couple of ligher Spinning Rods and Reels and has mostly been Crappie fishing in the past. I took him to Nolin last week in my boat and, even though the "catching" was slow, he said he enjoyed it. I was talking to him last night and he asked for recommendations for a couple of Baitasting rods with the "long handles" liike I have. I emailed him some information about using Baitcasters and I am going to loan him a couple of mine to practice with and get used to.

He said if he can get used to Baitcasters he wanted to buy a couple to use when he goes with me. We will see how he likes the ones I loan him and I have some ideas for "general purpose" baitcasters, but I was wondering what other people may suggest as to types of rod and reel not necessarily specific brands, i.e. 6'6" Medium Action Rod with a 5:1 Baitcaster (but specific brands and models recommendations are welcome if you prefer.) He does want to get "good stuff but not real expensive stuff" (his words).

Help me out on this folds, and thanks in advance for any suggestions.

Grumpy