-
Since you said you were interested in a couple rods/reel setups, I would say it depends on your usage/technique, which means you may buy different setups for each technique. If you’re throwing a cork or live shrimp/bait then I would put more preference on the reel; mainly something that will last in Salt water usage and you can get by with cheaper rods.
I feel like even crankbait and jerkbaits can get by with cheaper rods because the lure usually has treble hooks and you will typically feel the fish bite.
However If you’re getting into jigging or Texas rigging, then I put more preference on the rod (like high modulus graphites) even if that meant waiting for Black Friday or looking at used rods.
