JS,

For the fishing you describe, I agree with other recommendations that the rod is most important. Your reel is just a line holder, but real junk is just that. Something along the line of a Cortland Crown or Berkley 556 will serve the purpose well. A good 5 or 6 wt. rod at a reasonable price is offered by Lamiglass for around $125, I think. They aren't heavily advertised, but they are a good value for the price.

If you decide to chase rockfish on the jetty, you'll need a completely different outfit in an 8 wt. or so.

Sincerely,

Salmo g.