Don't buy a cheap rod. Most of mine ran about $110 to $140. I've got one cheap one and I call it the "Lincoln Log". It's stiff as hell. Ive got a couple that are real good ones and the best one is a Penn, but can't remember the model#.
Surf fishing off of Cape Cod for Blues, Striped Bass, Bonito, Spanish Mackerel, I use 20# test mono with a 12" steel leader on a good 10 to 12 foot rod. I throw a 2 1/2 or 3 oz Hopkins or Deadly Dick. I've got all Penn Reels and the last model was called a "Battle". The older ones were model# 6500 or 7500.
As far as what is best for where you're going, I'm not too sure.
