First Baitcasting Setup (Need A Rod)

[yankee_fan_1901]

I've just picked up a Lew's Speed Spool LFS on sale for $75, at a local store. This will be my first baitcasting setup and I want it to be a decent one. I really don't have alot of money to lay down on a rod, so I was hoping you all can help me find the best 7'0" Medium Heavy Power/Fast Action rod in the $50-60 price range. I'd, very much, appreciate any suggestions/advice. Thanks, in advance!

I'm brand new to the forums by the way...

[Joedodge]

Stop over and say hi in the introduction section of ya have time. A berkley lightning Rod shock or the halo starlight rods can be had at local shops and wal marts for about $39-50 and are outstanding rods for the money

[new2BC4bass]

I only have experiences with 2 rods in that price range....a Berkley Lightning and the black Tec Spec from DSG store.  Both are nice rods for the money.  Personally I would opt for the Lightning instead of the Lightning Shock if you go the Berkley route unless fishing strictly with braid.  it is my understanding the Shock tip is softer to make allowances for the braid.  I'm not a fan of its color either. 

 

Also keep an eye open for closeouts and check the various classifieds for a good used rod.  This forum sees a lot of good deals.  I've checked the New York bass forum a few times.  Not a lot of traffic, but have seen a few awesome deals on it.  If I was retired and had a fair amount of disposable income, I'd be checking fishing forums for a few other states as well. 

 

Also a warm welcome to the forum.  Lots of excellent information here including plenty of great reading material at the top.  Plenty of super nice guys hanging out here that are more than willing to offer advice, but then who doesn't like to offer advice. 

[Turtle135]

Gander Mountain has a sale on the Daiwa Lexa Casting Rods. The LEXA701MHXB (7'0" medium heavy, used to sell for $ 99.00) is on sale for $ 49.99 right now. Add something small to your order to get over $ 50.00 and you get free shipping.

[Penguino]

Powell Diesel, Lightning Rod Shock, Lexa on clearance etc. You have plenty of options. Just go in store and test out what works best for YOU.

[Bruce424]

If ya have a bass pro or cabelas or gander mountain near ya go there and look at there house rods. The rods that have their name on it. Usually are decent rods and usually under 50 bucks. I've owned cabelas and gander mountain rods and I liked them alot. And I'm sorry I can't speak for bass pro rods.

[bigturtle]

Look into Fenwick Eagle and HMX rods as well.

[BaitMonkey1984]

Check out TW for sales. Depending upon what you are looking for, you can catch a good sale. I was lucky enough to get a Skeet Reese crank bait 1/2 off. Also they have a Daiwa T casting rod or a Shimano Cellus. 

[FishTank]

The fenwick hmx if it is on sale is a great rod.  I would also give a vote to Gander Mountains house rods.   A friend of mine has been using the the Vortex and the Elite series rods and has nothing but positives things to say.  I tried out both and was really impressed.  Seemed like a great rod for the money.