Rcassady,
If possible, I would suggest you invest in a little better outfit than a $20.00 one. $20.00 doesn't buy much, as your reel problem would attest.
It will assuredly help you with your casting and enjoyment of the sport.
Pflueger is a good suggestion for a reel. Try to find one appropriate that was made in the USA. Many listed for sale on the World's largest bazaar. The older Martin MG-3 is also a good little reel for the money.
As to a rod, I'll leave that up to the more knowledgable folks here as to a good, minimal cost graphite or fiberglass one.
Good luck, and I think with some better equipment your fishing will improve much faster!
bobbyg
When you can arrange your affairs to go fishing, forget all the signs, homilies, advice and folklore. JUST GO.