some great info above... my set up for these is simple... 6ft med action baitcaster... 12# clear big game... snap... same rod I use for spoons and little georges... and spooks and small crankbaits... just a fun little rod that gets it done in the cold water... I've tried longer rods and different lines and come back to this... hook ups never been a problem...
If you fish smallmouth, it is required you have at least 1 6ft med action baitcaster in the boat... I carry 3...
goto a gander mtn or dicks, hit the discount rack and bins... could come up with an entire setup for under 80$! rod reel and line!