rods, Shimano IM8 or higher, 7 ft med/heavy

reels, Shimano Curado baitcaster   

line, PowerPro 30 pound test

Note: Curados were redesigned for 2006, and the price went up $50, but it's probably worth it.

You get what you pay for.

But if you are on a limited budget, I'd spend more on the ROD than on the reel. WHY??  You'll catch more fish with a better rod. Better rods are more sensitive, so you feel more bites and get better hooksets.

A new $50 reel feels about the same as a $250 reel. The $250 reel just lasts much longer due to its higher quality components.

Johnny Morris signature series baitcaster (BassPro)

Muskies Gear Top Picks

rods, Bass Pro's Pete Maina IM6  7.5 foot heavy action, and 8 foot extra heavy action 

reels, Ambassador C4 6500, or C3 6500 (redesigned for 2006, very good)

line, Spiderwire Stealth 80 pound test, or PowerPro 60 pound test