well it looks like someone has been doing their homework on budget reels which is more research than most weekend warriors put into their surf fishing.being the old time purest that I am I have actually used several of those reels and can tell you that the Daiwa BG is probably your best bet if you want something that will last more than one season.
you see, while beginners worry about fancy features and sealed bearings I focus on what actually matters - smooth drag and reliable performance when you hook into a real cow bass from the surf.that Penn Pursuit will work fine for occasional fishing but the BG series has proven itself in serious surf conditions.
I have been surf fishing longer than most of you have been alive and can tell you that technique matters more than expensive gear.you could catch fish with a $50 reel if you understand how to read the surf and time the tides properly, but most beginners think buying better equipment will make up for lack of knowledge.
that Okuma rod is decent for the price and any 5000 size reel will balance fine with it.I cant give away all my secrets but focus on learning where and when to fish instead of obsessing over gear specifications.
tight lines,
