If you're going to use it strictly for casting jigs (no slip float use) ... then I can recommend you take a look at the Norsemen Outdoors ESP line of rods. I use a 6'6" PowerLite for my jig casting, and I also use 1/16oz jigs (most often). You may want to look at the 8' Lite or the 7' PowerLite, depending on how much rod length factors into the way you fish.

ESP rods have extended handles (commonly called "poodle tail handles") for balance & leverage. They're tips are fast action, and have plenty of backbone in the lower core. They have graphite handles ... Tenn Style (no fixed reel seat) ... and metalic rings around the blank that's inside the handle (transmits vibrations from blank to handle to hand). The tip eye & tip end series of guides are "micro guides" (which is why I don't recommend slip float use).

Putting a wide spool or long cast spool reel with quality limp line ... will make casting for distance and accuracy an easy task. But, picking a reel that will balance the rod is a bigger factor. You should be able to put the reel on the handle, where it feels comfortable to hold, and then place the rod on your finger (at the front end of the handle) and have it balance there. Tip heavy or handle heavy outfits will not perform as good as a balanced outfit, and it will become uncomfortable to use within a short period of casting. A balanced outfit becomes an extension of your arm ... an unbalanced outfit creates stress in your wrist or forearm as you try and compensate for the weight difference in the tip or butt end of the rod.

For what it's worth ... I use a Shimano Aero 100 on my 6'6" ESP, spooled with Vicious Panfish 6lb test ... and it's a balanced outfit that serves me well for casting & dock shooting duties.

... cp