I will be fishing of the beach, or breakwaters, using plugs, and softbaits. I have some 12 pound test mono to go on it also. From the boat I will most likely be casting to schoolies.
A one peice 10 footer like an alstar or lamiglas should put you on track. I recomend a custom rod built for cape fishing by a local surf caster, there are ton's of skilled guys out there. Keeping in mind your application the ABU is a pretty adaptible reel.