This subject occured to me when I was hanging out at Sportco the other day. As we all know, fishing is an expensive sport, and I have no qualms about paying out what's necessary. But what about those that maybe don't want to spend so much, but still pick up quality gear? As we all know, there's a lot of crap out there, both cheap and not so cheap. What gear have you come across that might help those who are buying for someone else that may not get into the sport big time, or just buying stuff when you're tightening your belt? Here's my pick:

Okuma Conniseur 8'6" MH spinning/baitcasting rod. Great rod for light saltwater and salmon. Can sling up to 4 ounces of lead, take line from 15-25 pounds, and is sensative enough to feel very light taps on the line. Cost: $26 at Sportco, about $40 retail. I've had one for a year, and I can say I've spent a lot more on rods that weren't nearly as good.