depending on how much u want to spend...id say something in the 8 ft range rated a 1/2- 1 1/2 oz for the rod and a reel like the shimano
spheros or new quantums size mathed appropriately. both are around a $100 bucks, durable and fun to fish with. as far as rod makers it depends on price but honestly since you will be useing it id say spend the money on a loomis so that when he breaks (and almost inevitably he will) you can just get a new one. plus they will be great for your light tackle outings. there are however a multitude of rods to choose from at different price ranges, tusnami and tica being the cheepest though still good rods, st. croix being middle of the road
good luck in your search, let us know if you have any further questions and allways feel free to call the shop for specific questions
