You may also consider trying power pro or fireline in the 10 to 14lb range. The small diameter allows you to cast light bait a heck of a lot farther than mono of similar lb rating. You will also not have to deal with the line stretching so much. With a noodle rod, you have so much give in the rod, and with a lot of mono in the water, you have a lot of stretch in the line to deal with. Makes hooks sets nasty as you've seen.

Sharp, thin, barbless hooks, a long leader and good knots, and use a long sweeping hook set. And if you are catching the fresh salt water salmon to eat, and the beach is not crowded - who cares how long it takes to land. Just have fun with the challenge!

Good luck!