I like 6'8 length for dropshot. Ive used a dobyns champion, cumara, and phenix m1. All great rods and very sensitive.
I prefer 1000 size reels, there lighter, and there is no problems with line twist if you use braid & flouro leaders. At the moment I have a 6'8 cumara, 1000 size ci4, and 10lb power pro/6lb leader as my dedicated drop shot setup.