Tons of Bluegill at Merill Creek

[henro]

Originally Posted by kcritch

I'd recommend Medium rather than Med Heavy just for the ability to throw a lighter/wider range of lures better. In my experience Medium with a fast Action (tip) is plenty for Bass/Walleye here in our little state and still let's you down size effectively when needed. Right line and drag setting and you can handle the big ones easy yet still not feel like you are using a pool cue. Manufacturer does make a difference so just a general guideline for sure.

I agree with this. For the price range you mentioned I'd spend my money on a St. Croix Triump 6'6" M TRS66MF(one piece) or TRS66MF2(two piece) with a Shimano Sedona 2500 SE2500HGFI. You'll be spending around $170 and won't look back for the money. If you want to save a little money on the reel you could go with the Okuma Avenger ABF-30B Baitfeeder and have a little more versatility with the baitfeeder switch and save money since that reel is about $45. The Shimano is definitely much smoother though. I have both and much more high end models but would recommend either of these.