if you don't have good swivels, then use spiderwire instead of mono, because you'll get knots and twists, grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr. Penn also makes an inexpensive rod called the roddy. Just like ugly stick.
7 ft is all they need. I got some mid level penn 7ft spinners that are fantastic. Maybe with a shimano baitrunner? Or a 704Z? i really prefer the sensitivity and low stretch of braid.
I assume use chose spinners because they plan on casting as well. If they are just trolling i would reccomend the penn 320gti.