I never tried a 7' rod and you really need the length to fight the fish. The rod is really doing the fighing for you since you are using 4 or 6 lb test line or leader, depending on your setup. I started with a 9' rod and it worked well until I stepped on it and broke it. Bought a 10 and love it even more. I get more casting distance with the 10 and it comes in handy when they are really spooky and I want to stay as far away from my target as possible. I don't stand whey I am fishing, I sit my big behind in my chair so I am no taller than 4-5 feet when sitting and have no problem casting my 10 footer. Even if you are a short man, if you stand you will be taller than me sitting and I don't think you will have a problem sitting or standing. I would start with a 9' to get started. I used a Lexar(?? I think) IM7 that cost me $49 (3 years ago) from Punisher Jigs and the same rod is sold at the BP on the way to Cumberland. I would say it is around the same price and it was an excellent starting rod. Team it up with a better than average spinning reel with a good drag system and you will be ok. Good Luck