David covered all your questions about where and what. David- very thorough answer- thumbs up. (Your brand new to the forum??- you look like your copying my answer format.)
Here are some recommendations for reels and cool equipment:
1. BPS, Pro Qualifier- (Heck, I might get one of these- inexpensive but obviously decent- with 400 PLUS good reviews!)- http://www.basspro.com/Bass-Pro-Shops-Pro-Qualifier-Baitcast-Reels/product/102287/65279#BVQAWidgetID
Why buy something like the Pro-Qualifier? You may end up hating Baitcaster's and by getting a cheaper BCer you can spend more on other fishing related stuff!
2. Abu Garcia, Revo SX- http://www.basspro.com/Abu-Garcia-Revo&153;-SX-LowProfile-Baitcast-Reel/product/100535/86106
3. Shimano, Curado- (Enuff already mentioned this one)
4. Pflueger, Patriarch- (Nice!)- http://www.basspro.com/Pflueger-Patriarch-Baitcast-Reels/product/103787/146259
5. Abu Garcia, C4- (If you need a reel that can easily translate between Carp, Cats, Pike AND Bass think about getting a round-style BC reel. Round reels can handle the transition better AND they are EXTREMELY durable- in most cases a C3 or C4 could easily last you a life-time if properly cared for.)- http://www.basspro.com/Abu-Garcia-Ambassadeur-C4-Classic-Round-Baitcast-Reels/product/74091/134463
Rods??
1. Berkley Lightnin' Rod, Shock Series- (Inexpensive but VERY good for the money)- http://www.basspro.com/Berkley-Lightning-Rod-Shock-Series-Trigger-Rods/product/104157/66533
2. BPS, Tourney Special- (Great rod! AND, as with all BPS equipment, it's easy to return if you have any issues)- http://www.basspro.com/Bass-Pro-Shops-Tourney-Special-IM7-Graphite-Rods-Trigger/product/44528/48987
3. Abu Garcia, Vendetta- http://www.basspro.com/Abu-Garcia-Vendetta-Trigger-Rods/product/10203992/51244
You can buy more expensive rods- but, in my opinion you don't "need" to. The only time you need to upgrade reels and rods is when your fishing tourneys seriously. And the upgrade isn't necessarily about the weight or how the rod fishes- it's about durability. You need VERY durable outfit's when money is on the line. Even at a "semi-pro" level the Vendetta, Tourney Special and Shock would be fine. It also depends on WHAT your using the rod/reel for. Techniques that are tough on equipment, (like Flippin/Pitchin, Froggin, heavy Jiggin) you may want to spend a bit more on those outfit's.
But, I don't think you have to worry- your not starting on a "trail". And the best part about inexpensive gear? Leaves you more money for lures, line, hooks, and misc.
Other important equipment?
1. Leatherman tool- I reach for my Leatherman tool more than any other equipment, (other than my rods/reels)- http://www.basspro.com/Leatherman-Wave-MultiTool-with-Black-Oxide-Finish/product/10224715/116127
2. A good tackle Bag- I don't have any specific brand. I just look for the right construction- LARGE zippers, water-proof bottom. And you should purchase 3 smaller "quick bags" for Spinnerbaits, Jigs, and Worms.
Other than lures and terminal tackle that's about it. Maybe a good hat.......? (lol)
Hope this helps?