I have several different rods. For kayaking, a short rod is my great preference. I pull right up next to a dock or boathouse and can cast into the shadows for best action. And, general casting accuracy is so much better, so is leverage with the shorter lever. For long casts from a bank or dock, I have the St. Croix 6'9" pan fish rod. It is very nice.
Everyone should try Sufix Nanobraid in 2 lbs. test. Not to be confused with Berkley Nanobraid, a different line. Nanobraid in 2 lbs. is listed as .001" in diameter, almost seems like casting spider silk. As often happens, I go out for pan fish, end up with a few bass with my ultra-light gear. So far, the 2 lbs. has brought in a bass at close to 4 lbs. a few catfish the same size. It claims to be 3X as strong as others in its class. I believe it. Brad
