Orion033 - Glad to answer. I reviewed the posts here and did a bunch of internet research. What I learned is that there are many good choices available for reels, so many in fact, that unless you take notes, it can get confusing. I finally chose a Shimano Miravel 2500G. Interestingly, no matter where you buy it the price is the same. This probably means that the reel is in demand and that Shimano won’t sell it to wholesalers for less, soJa an argument can be made that the reel must be a really good one. I ordered it from Amazon (free delivery) and with tax paid $140. It will be used mainly for bass, crappie and trout. The bearings are sealed, so it could be used in salt for smaller species. My research indicated that you can get a very decent reel in the $50 to $70 range, but I wanted something very smooth with sealed bearings that will last forever with moderate usage. Sealed bearings take the price up, but are probably not critical for fresh water. I haven’t yet researched rods. That’s the next step.

SD, if you’re looking for a quality setup that will cover your bases I’ld suggest a Fenwick HMG model HMGPX76ML-FS paired with a Pfluger President 30. This rod and reel are solid performers and I believe best bang for your dollar, balance well together and should cost you less than $200. I wouldn’t want to throw large topwaters or plastic worms with it but it’s an ideal setup for throwing paddle tails, small crankbaits, and finesse dropshotting. The combo would work well for bass and panfish, again with the exception of large topwaters and things such as Texas-rigged worms.

I used to be a pretty good LMB fisherman way back in the day, but life’s responsibilities have kept that pursuit to a minimum for the last 20 years and I haven’t kept up on today’s equipment. I’m hoping to get back on the water before long and want to buy my adult son a good quality spinning reel with a matching rod for Christmas. The fishing would be mainly for small to medium size lakes in San Diego County for bass….and maybe crappie and bluegill. I don’t want cheap or low quality and am assuming that a range of $180 to $230 would work to get both components. (I can spend more if critical). Somebody correct me if I’m wrong and/or suggest some equipment for me. Thanks in advance for any ideas.