Floats rods have been used in our area for many years. Most of the local anglers using levelwinds prefer a fast action rod like a G loomis 1263 10'6 or 11'3. My favorite is the IM6 graphite but now a days you have to go with GL3. Sage also makes a nice rod but a bit soft for my liking. Fast Action allows good sensitivity and long distance hook sets.

The reason for the long rods is to keep the line out of the water.You get much better control over your bobber and line if you keep your rod tip high and line dry.