Quote Originally Posted by spinnerbaitguy View Post
Another thought, if $$$ is a big consideration, look on craigslist and ebay as well as the place on New Circle, since you're near Lexington. They have some nice, used stuff. I found a reel on craigslist last fall in Frankfort for cheap but it didnt have a scratch on it. If you're not sure or settled on a reel, don't get in a hurry. The right reel deal will find you.

This is not meant to be an endorsement of any entity, just trying to help someone think outside the box.
I would probably look at this site for used rods; I might avoid a used reel; unless you are going high end and you know the reel was maintained.

Another suggestion is watch sales at Bass Pro for combos. I have not read the Shimano V Abu Garcia comments yet. I have luck with Shimano and for $150; you might get a combo on a Citica Reel and and extreme rod combo. The Bass Pro Extreme Rods are okay.

I love the Ebay idea; especially for reels. You can check the reels out at the store and on line. Rods are difficult because I think you want to feel the rod and also shipping them presents some problems and adds to the cost.