A decent size 4000 spinning reel should be more than enough for most catfish you will encounter. That is the size I use and I have caught flathead, blue, channel, white, and other types of catfish. A 6'0''-7'0'' rod medium heavy to heavy action would be a good choice for a size 4000 spinning reel. 30 pound test braid or 15-20 pound test mono is what I mostly use and will use a stronger line if needed.