Since you stated bass in a pond…
This is the first combo I picked up. Not exactly expensive, but it’s served me well fishing for bass. It’s smooth and easy to handle. Plus it’s all matching brand rod/reel so they work well together.
Pickup some fishing line as well. 6-10lb monofilament line is the jack of all trades for line. And if you’re looking for a mixed bag of lures he can throw around, I personally enjoy the MonsterBass boxes as those are filled with baits for your region. Good luck! I’m sure he’s gonna love anything you get him