I use 5501C3's on my casting rods. All are 7 foot. Two are M (rated 3/4 to 3 oz) and one is MH (rated 1-4 oz). 15# pline on two, 17 on the third. You don't need a high speed reel for throwing plugs at Cumberland. You want the plug/jig swimming slowly. High speed reels for the Hydros on the Ohio can be helpful. Casting distance for night fishing is not really important. Accuracy is much more important.
Andrew