HighTones

Can someone explain to me what the main purpose of leaders are? Also what do most of you guys use for backing? Do you always use a leader or do you spool straight mono/fluro/braid? I am confused and wondering what I should do. It doesn't make sense to spool my bait caster with a new spool of seaguar invisx that costs $20 to have it replaced with another spool in 2 weeks. Any tips or info would be great.

I think it is actually a banded killfish. not sure though

I caught them in a small creek but there is a pond up stream and I always catch bluegills in here too

The first fish I posted almost looks like a bass or a perch, because it has stripes on it, and the other one I just never saw before

I found these fish in my creek today and was wondering what kind they are?

Thank you for the feed back guys, and I could spend up to $200 if I had to, just trying to see what my options are at the moment

I have been a trout fishermen most of my life, all while using a spinning rod and fly rod. I want to finally get into the baitcaster and am looking for a decent rod and reel combo for under $150. It is a lot to take in sometimes and I have been watching many videos, but I just need someone to guide me on what to look for. Thank you