Just go see Mike
Batson SW 1088 for the rod. For the reel, maybe a Penn 560 Slammer, maybe a Stradic 6000 or 8000, maybe one of the new Penn SSm 6500s, or even a traditional Penn 704 if Mike has any left.
You'll be out the door either at or around $300 with a very versatile beach outfit. And 9' is all the rod you need for anywhere but the Canal.