rod weights are measured according to which line weights are best suited for rod length, action, stiffness, casting abilities, etc. therefore the rod weight should be matched with the line weight. line weights are usually stamped, etched or painted on the rod just above the handle. usually next to the printed rod length. Deciding line design, ie; tapered.double tapered, floating, sinking, weight forward, sink tip, etc. depends on lots of other things like your quarry, the water depth, speed, obstructions, etc. reels should also be matched to line weight and be marked accordingly. These are rules of thumb, as will be pointed out (i'm sure) for basic hardware. there's way more to it than could be discussed here. anyway, ask for a casting lesson and don't give up.I suggest a st-croix 7-8 line weight rod, a reddington 7-8 reel and a wt forward/sinktip line with 300yds backing. this assumes fast, deep, big, strong, etc. terminal tackle is another issue. Im suspect someone will be correcting/ flaming these suggestions. we'll see.