What kind of rod/reel for a newbie guest?

I was wanting to get a rod and reel to have handy for a first timer fishing. Something to enjoy a fun trip,with lures inshore, without back lashes all day. I don't want to spend all day fixing birdnest..lol. Any thoughts? Zebco?? I wanted something that could handle reds and could be used with artificals. The 808 I had when I was young with my grandfather was always rigged with live bait and was big and heavy. I was wanting to find something a little lighter. Thanks!