I would stay away from baitcasters for now!
If you want a decent combo that won`t break the bank try this, a 7'-0" medium action Shimano Convergence and attach a Shimano Sedona 2500 this combo will handle 90% of the fishing you might do including,crankbaits,spinner baits and jerkbaits.
On sale you should be able to get this combo for a 100 bucks or so,IMHO you can`t get a better value than a Sedona especially when they are on sale,at the recent Spring show the Sedona`s were going for 59 bucks a super deal.
And pay attention if a one piece rod will fit in your car if not make it a two piece!