I am contemplating purchasing a 8wt "affordable" fly rod for the odd trip to the beach. I have never fished the salt (I live thousands of miles away from the ocean), thus this is all new to me. I am looking at the HX8 090 from Wild Water Fly Fishing (8 wt 4 pc), it sounds like an O.K. rod. I will also keep an eye on e-bay in case a good deal can be found there. I figure I'll probably use the rod once every few years, that being the main reason for wanting to keep the price of the purchase low as it will not get used very often.
What would you folks recommend for an affordable reel to go with this rod? I am looking for something durable, looks not being a priority. Every reel I have looked at "online" does not specify if it can be used in salt water. Any particular brand I should look at? what specs should I look for in a reel for saltwater fishing. I am hoping to get a chance to target a bonefish in a year or two.
Thank you in advance for your assistance.
Saltamontes