Guess I'm in the minority, but I had poor success with a $70 Okuma spinning reel, which cost me a nice fish when the drag seized up. Traded it back in for yet another Shimano, of which I have... well, let's just say I have more than two of 'em! :-)

I do have an Okuma Connisseur 10' medium light spinning rod I use for Silvers. Got it for only $30 at Outdoor Emporium and consider it a good rod and a great deal.