Stay in the 10-15# range and use shock leaders...
I really like the New Quantum spinnning reels but they are priced a little high for your budget...
Quantum® CaboPT™ Saltwater Spinning Reels

Corrosive sea water and big, super-aggressive fish spell trouble for ordinary tackle. That's why Quantum's engineers intentionally overbuilt this light saltwater reel, with an exclusive Saltgard™ 6-layer protective finish, custom polymer/stainless bearings, heat-defeating ceramic drag and ultra-smooth PT™ gears bathed in Hot Sauce™ lubricant. The goal? Zero chance for failure. Ever.
- 1-piece aluminum frame and side-cover
- Forged aluminum spool
- Saltgard™ finish
- Guaranteed unbreakable TiMag™ salt magnetic bail system
- Forged brass/stainless gearing
- 8- or 9-bearing system
- MAGLOK™ magnetic Continuous Anti-Reverse™
- Magnum™ ceramic drag
- Stainless steel handle
- Includes bag and wrench/knot tool
but the little brother is also sweet!!!!
Quantum® Boca PT™ Saltwater Spinning Reels
Corrosive sea water and big, super-aggressive fish spell trouble for ordinary tackle. That's why Quantum engineers intentionally overbuilt this rugged line of light saltwater reels, with an exclusive Saltgard™ 6-layer protective finish, custom polymer/stainless bearings, heat-defeating ceramic drags and ultra-smooth PT™ gears bathed in Hot Sauce™ lubricant. The goal? Zero chance for failure. Ever.
- 1-piece aluminum frame and side-cover
- Forged aluminum spool with concave skirt
- Saltgard™ finish
- Guaranteed unbreakable TiMag™ Salt magnetic bail system
- 5-bearing system
- MAGLOK™ magnetic Continuous Anti-Reverse™
- Multi-stack Magnum™ Ceramic drag
- 4 ball bearings plus one roller bearing
- Stainless steel handle
- Includes bag and wrench/knot tool
John