Love the title of the thread..I thrive in keeping it simple...and yet catching the big one..

Most importantly is your line ...so I got some questions,,

A, what size cat fish may be the biggest you will tackle..
B, are you using live bait..
C. Are you fishing around lily pads and weeds or just an occasional brush pile or rock pile


The reel...if your under a tight budget...keep your Spiderman..lol they do work

Rod...use what you have,,

IF you want to do better..I'd recommend going back to Walmart...where you can get an open faced spinning combo..since kids may be using it..a 6 footer is great,,I wouldn't get nothing less than a medium action..the action is written right on the rod..

Most cheap line has swirls and tangles easily which can destroy a fishing trip..break down and buy the 6.00 spool of Trilene XL. 10 pound test...learn how to tie the improved clinch not for less break offs..