I use floats quite a bit and I'll repeat the main theme: longer rods are better. They allow more effective mending of the line to keep the belly out and allow more line to be picked up when setting the hook. The longer rods are also more forgiving on jigs, which have more delicate hooks. I have 2 float rods:

10' 6-10lb light action Herzog Series by Lamiglass (spinning)

10.5' 6-12lb medium action Loomis GL3 1263C (Casting)

These 2 rods have steelhead tapers as oppose to noodle rods tapers so both make fine drift rods, as well. In fact the Lami is my primary low-water summer-run rod. The Loomis is also a great beach stick for throwing herring under a float off Whidbey for silvers. Good Luck.