Hunterfisher,

It seems like just about everybody but me suggests that a newcomer buy the very best of everything that they can afford. That's one approach, and certainly a good one, providing money's not a problem. I began fly fishing as an impoverished student and learned that the fish, including steelhead, didn't know how little I spent on my tackle.

The combo outfit you're looking at is at the bottom end of being serviceable, but it just might work. I've seen some $99 rods that are very good; they one you're considering might be, or not, I honestly don't know. I've used really cheap reels and had two literally explode when a summer run hit and began running. The Prstige Plus may serve, and if not, you'll always have the memory of it exploding when a hot summer run took off. The lowest price, high quality reel that I'm certain will handle steelhead for years and years of service is the discontinued Ross Colorado that can be had on Ebay for about $65. As for lines, SA Supremes can be had at Sportco for about $27, and they used to be the best available, and are still extremely serviceable. If you can tie your own steelhead leaders, you can learn to make your own sink tips, so don't fear chopping up a line, especially if it's low cost to begin with.

I'd say go ahead with the Cabela's outfit and see if you like fly fishing for steelhead. If you do, you're going to end up with more tackle than you know what to do with anyway, regardless of how much you spend on that first outfit.

The one piece of gear you absolutely should not scrimp on is your chest waders. Get good waders, as it will ultimately have more influence on your fishing success than the quality of your rod, reel, or line.

Sincerely,

Salmo g.