Newbie needs rod & reel buying advice

[ugolee]

So, I'm a 31 yo city guy who just this year was turned onto fishing on a couple ocean charter trips.

My cousins like fishing and also crabbing off the Pacifica Pier near San Francisco. I want to start having my own gear so I don't always have to borrow or rent stuff when I go out.

What I would love is something that's kind of all or multi-purpose. I would love to be able to get a rod and reel and use it when charter fishing for Rock Cod or Salmon, or pier fishing for cod or halibut, or for casting out crab snares off the pier for dungeoness crab.

Can anybody point me in the direction of something that can handle all of this, but also won't break the bank? What should I be looking for in a rod and a reel and line?
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[gdn443]

Ugly stick makes a good affordable rod that will last. Shimano makes a great reel at different costs to fit any budget. I like 20lb braided line for my saltwater fishing. Unless I'm trolling.
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[ugolee]

So, what kind of rod should I get. I see a lot of things like rated x pounds and so much action. And i have no idea what the difference is in the type of reel I should get.
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[gdn443]

Depends on if you use it for a boat rod or plan on useing it as a spinning outfit. 5' stout rod works well for the boat and a 7" I use with my spinning reel. 4000 series is a good fit for both rods. Check cabela's for a combo set up. Talk to your local bait shop as well.
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