I’ve shot most everything, docks, both floating and fixed, and brush and overhanging trees and downed trees. It’s isn't just about docks but more of a line drive presentation. For practice I suggest a coffee container. A little distance helps at times so vary the distance when practicing. I prefer a 1/32 and a flat sided body like a Bobby Garland Baby Shad as an example. As for what rod is best, it’s the one in your hand when the opportunity presents itself. Pick a rod that your comfortable and confident with and use nothing but it for a while. This will shorten the learning curve and build your confidence. Don’t like too soft or too stiff for close quarters. Once you become an old hand at it you’ll shoot 6” square holes in the side of a floating dock with whatever is in your hand. It’s a good feeling when you hit a 4” square hole in a floating dock and the line jumps before you can close the bail.