All I do just about is pull cranks. You can get by cheap on the rods and reels. I use shimano 1000 reels and about the cheapest rods I can find. Usually about $30 per outfit in them. I usually pull with 12 foot rods on the outside and then 4 regular 6 to 7 1/2 footers for the inside ones. I use 12 lb braid for the cats and stripers you will catch. You will however sink a load of money in cranks. I probably have $500 to $600 in cranks and still don't feel like I have what I need sometimes. Good luck it is tons of fun.