The Longitude is definately not an 8nbait rod, you'll way overload the rod. I too would second the Penn Battalion. Mine hasn't let me down so far. I am currently using the Penn Prevail and Penn Battalion in the 4-10 oz 12' models. Both easily cast 6+bait very well and could do 8+bait in a pinch when needed. I tried the Penn Battalion 6-12 oz 12' model, but it was much too stiff for me, I practice casted 8 & 10 oz torpedoes and could barely load the tip. I think the heavier model would do 10+Big Bait very well. For myself, I found it too much effort trying to load the rod well enough to get a good cast.
For a budget reel, I found that I prefer the Fathom series over the Daiwa Sealine's. I like the full metal body (granted it's cast versus machined) and the instant AR with backup double pawl AR. Its about on par with the Sealine's for maintenance and already comes with HT-100 Carbon washers (make sure to add Cals, as they come un-greased.) the Fathom also puts out 25#'s of drag vs the 17.5#'s on the sealine 40/50 models.
Best price I have found for these currently.
Penn battalion: Wally world carries them with free shipping. Prices vary but are real good right now, the 4-10 is running $106.90 ($129.99 normal retail) and the 6-12 is $114.80 ($139.99 normal retail)
Penn Fathoms check with eztmo.com the guy running it is right here in socal I got my 30 for 150 new in box with free shipping, he also sells the 40 new out of box for $140 with free shipping. The Penn 30 has roughly the capacity of the Sealine 40, etc
