I will 2nd Phil's recommendation of the St. Croix Tidemaster (either the 7 or 7 1/2'). Another rod to consider would be one of the Star Stellar Lites. Both brands are now available at Dick's Sporting Goods. Also, right now, you get a free hoodie when you buy a St. Croix at Dick's.
BTW, St. Croix and Star Rods will be on hand at the Somerset show this weekend (as well as many others). Might want to head up there this weekend for an opportunity to pull on a bunch of them.
Myself and quite a few others from NJSWF will be there Friday night.