Abu Garcia Black Max Baitcaster combo

I can't speak to the combo, but I have a black max reel on a 7' Ugly Stick Lite.

I've used the reel for 5 years now bass fishing and minimal maintenance, and have had no issues. For learning bait casting it would probably be fine. Just start off with the spool tension screw too tight, and back it off as you get more comfortable with the feel. You're going to backlash some but don't let that deter you. Once you get it down, there will only be rare instances where you'll actually prefer a spinning over a bait caster.

We bought two while on vacation about a year ago. I ave worked them in to my rotation, throwing small top water and swim baits

Just bought 1 Monday to replace a combo that a catfish pulled overboard in the Atchafalaya river. Used it for the 1st time this morning. 7' medium heavy was good action and the reel was a lot smoother than I anticipated. Definitely going to buy a couple more.

They cut that price was $77 couple of weeks ago. Will likely go get it at $50.

I bought a few for my nephews a couple of years ago. They've worked well for bass.