Quote Originally Posted by todobien
Temple Fork Outfitters offer a good quality rod for less than $100. I've used one of the $40 Okumas and can't complain. Ross Worldwide is also now offering a reel in that price range but it has the drag of the normal Ross reels so it'd probably be a better choice.

I don't know where you're located but http://www.southeastflyfishingforum.com/forum/
is a good flyfishing site and you could look for input from those folks. The board sponsor is a nice guy and has good prices in his store.
Ok, the Ross Flystart which you are speaking of, has a terrible drag. I had one freespool on me right off the fly shop's shelf when I had it tightened down to feel the drag resistance. The Orvis Clearwater is not a bad reel in that price range, has a decent drag, as well as a lifetime warranty, all for $39.00.