First i would look in the classified ads on this forum. You can find them for 120-160...
Second there 3 inch paddle tail worms are awesome, as are there 6 inch worms.
Long rod, braided line, jigs/worms/bait and that's all that's really needed. Easiest technique to learn how to fish with, and catch fish effectively under a variety of water conditions. Bob has some info on float fishing in the techniques section, and doing a search through the forum will provide more info.