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Shimano Saragosa is a great new spinning reel for the money. We've sold a few and they have held up very well for the fish here. Some guys like the jigging setups as well. I think its really what your looking to spend really and Shimano makes great combo set-ups now that cater to guys jigging. Hope this helps some.
Also, any of the rods they offer hold up very well for the money. WE sell a ton of the GLoomis Bukara and Pro Blue and I would think any of the St Croix Premier 7-8 ft rods would work fine for that size class.