Originally Posted by
Marley
Try a blown up, pinched-in-half nightcrawler. NOT that stuff in a jar, but real worms. 3-lb. is OK if you can find fresh stuff. Definitely try 2-lb., keep your drag set on the loose side until you get used to how it feels. Ande is my favorite, but steer clear of 2-lb. Stren, breaks too easy.
As far as a stick, Spinmatic is a fantastic line of rods. Durable enough, very economical (I think I paid $40 for the last one I bought) and very user-friendly. You can certainly pay a lot more but there truly is no need to. Ugly Stick is also a very good choice but play with each one as there are many different actions.
Good luck!