$200 Dollar Spinning Reel Or Less

[jrautb]

Hi Im planning on purchasing a new spinning rod in a few weeks and am wondering whats the best rod I can get? I want to get something like a 6'6 med hvy fast action rod. I was looking at the st Croix avid. Does anyone know anything about this rod? Also I was looking at the shimano crucial does anyone know anything about that rod? Which of the two are better and why? and is there a spinning rod you guys have in mind that is 200 or less that is better in your opinion than these two? Also what kind of spinning reel should I get for the rod? I was looking at the shimano symetres but not sure what to get? Any help is appreciated Thanks

[jrautb]

Sorry guys meant spinning rod

[OntarioFishingGuy]

I haven't used the Crucials, but a St. Croix Avid would definitely be a solid option. For a reel, a Shimano Symetre would do fine, but some people find the bail wire to come too close to the knuckles (I haven't had this problem with my 1000). A Pflueger President also comes highly recommended, and would be a good option for less money.

[BaitMonkey1984]

Handled a lot of the st croix and subsequently own a bunch. My fav is the Rage. 

[Penguino]

Okuma Helios. I'm surprised that Okuma barely receives any love. I have the rod a step below the Helios, the C3-40X and all I have to say is that it is fantastic. The sensitivety is really good, as I can feel every little tap on my weightless t rig. Check the TT reviews for the Helios. It also passes with flying marks.

[SirSnookalot]

Best is totally subjective.

I don't feel there is any difference between a bass rod and an inshore one, I use inshore rods as my hand is in front of the reel on the foregrip.  

My most used rod for bass is a 6'6 med 6/12 Shimano clarus, I like this rod a lot.  What I like about it is that it's underpowered, fishes IMO more like a ml. Using a reel in the 7 oz range the combo is a feather and an extension of my arm, matches my fishing personality.  This combo never leaves the trunk of my car, not a bit of rod maintenance (guide repairs, cork problems) in years, an occasional cleaning with a magic eraser.