I think the Penn 525 or 535 are excellent conventional casting reels. They are expensive. I think the best rod would depend on your height and body type. If you are under 6' then any rod below 11' is best for casting and comfort. The rod also depends on how much you want to spend.
I give you a few choice I would use with the Penn 525 or 535.
Power Act. Lgth. Pcs. Line
Wt.(lb) Lure Wt.(oz) No. Gds. Price
Daiwa Sealine-X Series Casting model:
SL-XS1002MHRB MH R 10' 2 15-30 3-6 9 $64.95
SL-XS1102HRB H R 11' 2 20-40 4-7 10 $84.95
St. Croix Casting model:
SC106MH2 MH 10'6" 2 10-25 6 $210
There are a few more but I just forgot their names. Shop around and compare prices.
I use a 12' Ugly Stik for my own conventional tackle. I dont got that much money to buy the ones above.
