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