Spinning rod works fine for the sky, get a decent reel (okuma or shimano) it can cast as far as a baitcaster. I prefer the spinning it works good for all around use, float fishing, boondogging,drifting(baitcaster better for drifting) IMO.. and my shimano(spheros) spinning will hold 170 of 8# test.
BTW you don't need to cast real far at the sky,IMO, most of the time fish are holding along the edge or within normal casting distance!, especially in this high water we have had, and will continue to have.
For a rod, I would suggest looking at the TH rods, very good for the price, I use a 1084, I like the size.
If you want inexpensive I would get a berkely air IM7 buzz model, 8' 6" kind of on the short side but good size for price, and a nice rod!
These are only my opinions, the rest of suggestions are great as well!
Woodsy Wayne
hope that helps!!