I have primarily been a catfish angler but my kids are not really into to the sit and wait approach. I am looking for some good value rods and reels. I have a few rods so I think reels will probably be the first thing I get. I do fish from a boat. I am not wanting to spend big bucks.

Spinning reel , Quantum Graphex 6' ( 1-Piece ) Med . Heavy , Amazon , around 24.00, great value , hope this helps

Shimano sienna in the 2500 spool size. About 28$ good bang for the buck.

Updated 10-13-21
Low cost, but something you will not have to constantly be fiddling with because of problems. Originally the shimano TX series from back in the 90's were their entry level. For fishing 30 days a year they will last a lifetime, we fished 4 days a week back then and they would last about two years. When the reel finally went belly up, we would take the spool off and chunk the reel. Still have many if the old TX models in the garage. Just try and get a spinning reel that has a spool larger than the 1000 size, this will help with casting. By the way, don't know where you live but I have a diawa gold cast push button reel. Its the slightly larger one that would do well with 8 to 12 lb test. Think it is the gc100. If your interested in this for the kids i will give it to you with a rod. Some kids need something a little less complex to get started with. It would do well with a jigging spoon, and also a great backup for an adult that is not accustomed to fishing.. I live in Trophy Club, and fish on Grapevine allot.


This is what the goldcast reel looks like. Bought it for my Dad and he didn't use this one.

What size reel?

Amazon or Academy , Lews MR Crappie Slab Shaker 100 , 14.00 to 16.00 , these are cheap reels for kids that just want to have fun.