Thanks Lunker, LEfriend, Bbrack! The Daiwa Revros does get great reviews and not too pricy at under $50. Unfortunately I am not a candidate for the custom rod/reel that was recommended as it's a bit out of my budget (I need to purchase 4 rods/reels after testing 1).
Can anyone help me understand why a spinning reel is better than baitcaster? Bbrack, you seem to have a pretty strong opinion so I'd love to get your comments.

Heading back out perch fishing from Sandusky this weekend. Hoping to find hot spot. Crazy to have caught 3 perch in 2 hours in 28' of water west of Kelly's last Sat followed by catching 11 nice perch in 1 hour off a dock in the back of Sandusky bay (past Cedar Point bridge) in 4' of water..... shiners, spreader, #6 hook.