I wish I would have seen this thread earlier today. But I actually got some fishing in...
APRW1, I agree with that statement In theory.... But I have that rod. In fact I have most of the rods made in the Endurance line up... Its my opinion that its not a true extra fast...and those particulqr rods do well with braid...braid is all I use except for cranking and jerks.
To the OP, you will enjoy that rod and that reel. I have that exact same set up and use it for jigs mainly 3/8-3/4
Like Arb said, set your drag a notch or two lower than its supposed to be and i will be just fine