New Spinning Reel and Rod

I am currently fishing with a Daiwa Megaforce Baitcaster w/ Twichin' Bar (on a Med Ugly Stick). I notice that I have a hard time casting lighter lures with this reel (no matter what type of line I use)

I am thinking of getting a new setup with a spinning reel. I really like the Ugly Stick rods and will buy a new one for this reel. I am having a hard time deciding of the right reel/rod combo.

Can someone give me some direction on a good combination? I would be willing to buy them separately and spend around $150 up to $200.

Thanks

I think I have narrowed my reel choice down to 2 contenders.

Abu Garcia Soron STX40:

http://www.basspro.com/Abu-Garcia-Soron-STX-Spinning-Reels/product/10202374/-1540250

or

Shimano Saros F4000:

http://www.basspro.com/Shimano-Saros-F-Spinning-Reels/product/96672/-1423663

For both reels I would put one braid on one spool and Fluoro on the other.

Now I have to find a good $50-$60 rod to go with this.

Any info would be greatly appreciated.

I'm not sure if it's true with all of their reels but my Shimano didn't come with a spare spool.

I was just at Kittery Trading Post today and they have a tent sale going on. Honestly, the fishing display was small BUT they had Clarus rods and a few models of Shimano spinning reels on sale. I feel badly in the sense that I mention this without knowing prices, but, if the savings is good, it may be worth it to give a call up.

FWIW I was in the same place last summer and needed a spinning reel/rod combination for the same reason as you. In the Fall I picked up a Carrot Stix rod and this spring picked up a Pfleuger President spinning reel (MAFF recommended).

Charlie

I own a pflueger president, and i think its an awesome reel, really smooth and casts well. I would look at the pflueger president, and a st. croix mojo bass. I have never used a mojo bass but i hear its a good solid rod.

Go with the shimano saros. great reel.

Here is my setup. It's nice if you want to spend a bit less.

Reel - Shimano Spirex 2500
http://www.basspro.com/Shimano-Spirex-FG-Front-Drag-Spinning-Reels/product/102802/-1532583

Rod - Shimano Volteaus
http://www.basspro.com/Shimano-Voltaeus-Spinning-Rods/product/10205084/-1593354

The trigger on the reel is awesome and it's a very sensitive rod.

Funny, I just found myself in the same situation. I have (2) baitcast setups. (1) I use for jig/frog, the other for heavier spinners & wormin. I have a light setup spinning, so I was thinking about a new spinning setup for my lighter lures.

I went to basspro yesterday and picked up a Shimano Sahara & a St. Croix Mojo Bass 6'8" (M). I can't wait to get out and give it a try.

I wouldn't go with a 4000 series real, the 2500 is perfect for 90% of freshwater fishing.

I'm not a fan of the volteus, the tip is just too "fast" for me, I like being able to apply action to a lure or weight without the tip starting to bend.

I'm a fan of the Daiwa regal 2500 reel and berkley lighting rod.