I have lots of different combinations of rods and reels, added another one to test out. This time, think I've put together the absolute cheapest baitcasting reel, medium heavy catfish style rod you can buy.


This reel, https://www.academy.com/shop/pdp/h2o-xpress-premier-round-baitcast-reel?repChildCatid=7867045


With this rod, https://www.academy.com/shop/pdp/h2o-xpress%E2%84%A2-bait-rod?repChildCatid=3949032

Entire combo was less than 50 bucks. I've got some mid range rods, a couple higher end rods, and the same with reels. Figured I would put together the bottom dollar combo too, and see how it worked. Not really expecting this thing to horse in some monsters, but I guess we will see. I know I'm definitely going to use it for summertime Channel Cats. Gonna see how it handles stripers and larger cats too though.

Bought 8 of 'em a month ago. Three didn't work out of the box. One quit working after just dropping Shad. A 10# Striper destroyed another. 3 still work. I'm taking them all back. Thought it might work for a second. I was reminded quickly, you get what you pay for.

Kinda figured that, I kept the receipt. I like the rods though, I have another one with a 6500 Abu on it.