Hi All,
I'm new to fly fishing and I'm in the process of acquiring equipment. I don't have tons of money to spend on gear, not to mention that I probably can't appreciate the difference between a $70 and a $700 rod, yet.

So with that in mind, I'm looking for suggestions on first time gear. I can afford to spend a little bit more on either the rod or reel, but all the fishing mags and internet discussion boards I've read thus far conflict when it comes to which is more important. (I know they're both important) My budget is in the $300 range.

I will be fishing for mainly lake trout and panfish. But after reading the Westport Jetties thread, saltwater "black bomber" fishing looks interesting as well.

Thanks in advance for your advice.
(I will also be headed to Meydenbauer Center for the fly fishing show as well.)