New fishermen needing a baitcasting reel

[ReelMaster]

Hello,

I am new to bass fishing and fishing in general. I was given a 6'6" mh rod for Christmas. What would be a good starter reel for around $75.00.

[bowtech_182]

Personally I would get an Abu Garcia Pro-max or a BPS extreme if you are looking to buy new.  Maybe a used Revo S or Citica if buying used.  Burley had a Revo S in the classifieds a few days ago for $70.

[ww2farmer]

Simmons on e-bay has NIB Quantum Accurist PT's for $64.99 + shipping, those reels are well worth it, they were around $125-$130 a year ago. They are on sale because Quantum replaced them for 2009 with a new reel. Or Cabelas has there Prodigy reel on sale for $79, normaly $99. It is made by Daiwa and is built on the same platform as the TD-A, and the Tierra. IMHO it is a better buy than both. A Revo S is also a great choice, but I rarely see them in your price range, usually NIB ones go at least $90 and up, but you could get lucky and find one I am sure. And lastly keep your eyes peeled for a Shimano Citica 200D (or 201D if your a lefty) I have seen NIB ones go for as low as $75. I own all 4, and like them all.

[The Rooster]

Bass Pro Shops Extreme is a wonderful reel and they go for $65 plus shipping right now on sale on their website.  I have 3 of these, they're very excellent reels.  Smooth, able to cast fairly lightweight baits (for a baitcaster).  Aluminum frame.  It's hard to find that last one in a reel of this price.

[Sam]

Be sure to note the rod's specs and get a reel that matches the rod.

For instance, look at the line test and lure weight on the rod and make sure your reel is within those parameters.

Remember,, a low retrieve ratio is for power and a fast ratio is for speed.

Have fun selecting the reel and let us know how you do when fishing the rig.  

[cart7t]

You can find NIB Citica D's for that price.  Shimano is basically trying to give them away since nobody seems to want them.  

Not a bad reel, just too big and heavy.