Another vote for Ugly Stik GX2's. I find I prefer their action (and price) instead of my collection of Daiwa Kenzakis that are now gathering dust.
Anyone want to buy a 6-12 or 12-20 orange Kenzaki??
As for reels, I like Penn Fathom 2's or Avet multis for my downtide fishing, and a FS reel if I'm using a spinning rod or uptider.