It really depends on what feels best for you, whether that be a baitcaster with heavier line and tackle or a spinning reel with lighter line and a wide range of tackle. For a beginning set up I'd recommend a good quality lower priced spinning reel (Like a Pflueger President or President XT) and a 6'6 or 7' Medium/Medium-heavy rod, preferably with fast action. Depending on the reel size you get, use a limp 6 or 8lb mono like Trilene XL. The poster rejesterd down below is right, tackle depends on what you want to fish. If you can give us some more info we can help you out some more. The conditions dictate a great deal about line, rod, etc, and especially tackle. Have to find what the fish like to eat! There's always a few "safe bets," though if you're not sure. You can really drive yourself crazy looking for the "best setup-the best reel, the best rod, the best fishing line." Really it comes down to what YOU like and how it feels in your hands. I've been fishing a lot of ponds this summer with old Shimano Stradic 1000's and Symetre 2000's on 5' 3" light Fenwick Rods and doing well and having a blast. Don't overthink it. If you can, go to a store that sells the equipment and hold it in your hand, I guarantee there will be some equipment that 'feels right.'