OK, here's some advice from a fellow bassman.
I spend a ridiculous amount of money on my bass set-ups. As you know, with bass, the more sensitive, the better. My inshore saltwater rigs for redfish, trout, snook and others are mostly All Star Rods, but I use a few different set-ups (I don't spend as much on my inshore equipment due to the erosion factor). I wish there was more than one Academy Sports + Outdoors in Florida, because that is where I would send you. The have rod riots where you can get a good All Star Rod for around $49. I usually stick with a medium to medium light (ML if I am throwing tails).
As for the reel, the Revo Inshore is around $229, Daiwa has a few new reels that would fit what you are looking for, and Shimano just released the new Curado at ICAST, which I believe will retail for around $149. The new Curado is less expensive than the old one, which was around $200. They are catering to a tougher economy. The latter reel might be your best choice for a combo at around $200.
I would probably go with an All Star 7' medium action rod and the new Curado. For line, I would suggest Trilene 100% Fluorocarbon in 12 or 15 lb. test. I usually stick to the 12 - that leaves plenty of line and you can apply enough pressure with your drag set properly to turn most inshore species. I know a number of people using this line and they are very impressed with its performance.
Hope this helps!
