[Chico]

I prefer a longer rod, at least 7' if fishing from a partyboat, helps keep the line away from the sides of the boat. I have a custom fish poison rod built by Kevin Bogan and an 8' Chaos rod that I originally had built for fishing large grouper. You need to be able to put 500 yards of 50# or 65# braid on the reel. A 4-1 ratio with decent torque is needed, too high of a speed and cranking up the 2 to 4# sinkers plus fish will be tough, get a ratio too low and reeling will be easy, but a very long process. Dave has had the opportunity to try many more reels than most of us, so his advice is solid. I personally use an Avet LX two speed, the low speed of 3-1 works for me, the hi speed is only good for 2# sinkers or less, with no fish. I also use an old Diawa Sealine 50 reel that works fine as well. I take no chances, I buy my rigs pre-made. Dave at Reel Seat has some on his website you can look at and order.