Welcome aboard!
Walmart sells the very good Lightning Rod Shock series for $40. These,
as mentioned by @fishnkamp, are excellent rods. And while I don't prefer
the feel of the Pflueger President as much, it is a great reel with solid
longevity, and lots of fans.
I prefer Shimano, but for $50 the Pres a fine reel.
I would suggest a slightly smaller reel, as well, unless your waters are
stocked with really big species, you don't *need* more line capacity. A
2500 size reel is considered the "standard" size for bass fishing...
(That said, I use 1000 size reels for all bass fishing, and I do fish water with
Stripers in them (caught a 14 lber, but on a bait caster), tho not worried
as I'm in a kayak (can be towed by the fish) and know how to play larger
fish.
For a beginner, my way is not nec. the best way to go. Just mentioning to
say this isn't a "one size fits all" sport.)
Bottom line:
Lightning Rod Shock - $40
Pflueger President - $50
Total for rod/reel - $90 (add on tax)
Leftover: ~$30 for bait!! Good deal, IMO.
