i like a good 10-11ft rod. i likeheavier action surf ugly stiks and they dont cost to much. but even if u dont want to spend that much check out some of bass pro's rods they have some for like $30. heres the link:
http://www.basspro.com/webapp/wcs/st...002000_151-2-2
a good reel i like is a daiwa opus plus 6000. it is about $55 but is really difficult to take apart. if you wouldnt mind spending more the daiwa black gold series are very good. i have never used the daiwa DF100A Giant but it is only $30. i have heard never get it and i have heard it is a really good deal.
-jace