For Halibut I have Penns mainly. GTI 330, 340s, 345s, and a big Penn Line Counter 895. I also have clear down to an old Penn 309. All work but I don't use the old 309 any more. Shimano and all of the others make a lot of really good reels too. I would suggest a shorter stout halibut rod. I like the 5'6 length. I have numerous ones of these from Lamiglas, Shakespeare, Diawa, Penn Stand up slammer rods and on and on. Some are up to 6'6 long. Longer rods means more leverage against you. The shorter rods are easier to pump. The main thing is to have a fairly stout 20-50 or 50-80, or even a 50-100 pound rod. you can get the roller type rod but I don't think it is necessary. Almost all of mine have at least the roller tips and the first guide roller. I fish with friends that don't have this type and see no difference. If you get one with rollers be sure to keep the bearings oiled. Especially at the end of the season. I would recommend some good line. It is not cheap. Get at least a good grade of Spectra or braided type line. Make sure it is the really thin like the Tuff Line Plus or XP or Power Pro small diameter. When you are fishing 200-300' + it really makes a difference on line drag in the water. The monroe sportsman show will probably be a good place to pick some of this up for a great deal. Be sure not to buy the cheap stuff that is regular diameter. It will fill your reel way to fast. The good line will cost around $30.00 for 300 yds of 80 pound. I use the 80 but it is not necessary. Make sure to get a good gaff and harpoon while you are at it. Another good investment is a fighting belt to set your rod in for that lengthy rod jigging. It really helps when bringing up fish that are really deep. I am sure others will fill in the blanks after me. Good Luck, Ron