The reason I asked about your price range is because you can get a very decent brand new combo package for $225 if you are on a budget.
Here is one example from FishUSA:
FISHUSA COMBO I would opt for a fixed reel seat - just my personal preference.
13'6" is the longest I would go for a rod. I have one, but use a 10'6" rod most of the time - that's just me- I'm a clumsy day-dreamer who forgets about stuff like overhanging tree branches.
The amount of options with centerpin equip can be more mind-bongling that flyfishing outfits.
If you have looked around the interwebs, you will notice guys sporting $500 rods and $600 custom engraved reels - and then upgrading them with space-age bearings and super-duper ceramic slick guides and such... way outta my league....
If I'm going to spend that much ching on fishing gear it better come with a title...:)
There's always Craiglist and classified sections of fishing forums.
Good luck with your search.