Quote Originally Posted by walkeraviator View Post
Dicks has a Silver Max on a Berkley Lightning Rod Custom for $50 as a package right now... great deal i think for a beginner. Personally, I learned on old school round reels with crappy brakes. I think teachin em on something that is TOO easy to cast doesnt teach em thumb control or how to cast in the wind very well. Start em off on something that makes em work at it... then let em get into equipment that makes it easier on em.
I second the Black/Silver Max recommendations. These reels cast extremely well for the price range ($50-$60). The difference between a black max and revo when casting is minimal. The Revo feels like it is more sturdy and slightly smoother, but overall the black max is a great reel. BPS has a black max combo with a 6'6 MH abu garcia rod for $60 too.