In article ,
Dave LaCourse wrote:

Here's an ideal rod/reel outfit from Waldo, ready to fish with line,
backing, and a leader, plus he'll throw in a dozen flies.

http://ezflyfish.com/ezsmstou.html

I cannot attest to the St. Croix rod, personally, but I've heard good
words about it and the Ross reel.

Let us know what you decide.

Dave

You should ask him to special order you the tfo series 1 2 piece which
is $99, then buy the ross at $35 which includes flyline (and I assume
backing), and you are ready to go at $134, which puts you $66 below just
what you were willing to pay for a rod, which will get you at least one
private casting lesson.