Cat,
I just got back from Da Banks and gave my new Daiwa SL30SHV a good going through. I'm no expert with conventionals, but this reel is very user friendly, two sets of brakes, holds plenty of line and is very popular down in Hatteras where distance is the name of the game. If you are totally new you might want to go with the 20 instead of the 30 for more control. They are also less prone to corrosion due to the way they are constructed. There are plenty shops along the banks where you can get the Abu as well as the Daiwa. Most have Websites: Hatteras Jacks, Red Drum, and Frisco Rod and Gun are a few.