For me The 8'6'' is a little too short. I Love the 9'6'' version of the bps micro fnf rod. You would be suprised by what an extra foot will do to you casting distance and control over you cast. As for a reel I use A pflueger president spinning reel. For Braid I use Berkley Fireline Crystal flash and for my leader I use Seagaur Invisix. 100% flouro. I like the seagar ALOT better than vanish.I hate berkley vanish. I work at a Old tyme hardware store and we are a small bass pro dealer (We have plenty of stuff though), and I sell alot of bps micro lites. Instead of spending the money to buy a g-loomis, buy you 2 or 3 good fnf rigs. Come on down and I will fix you up with everything u need. I live in Hazard,ky... Might be a long drive but It will be worth it