I fish this part of the Alabama River Below the dam I am wondering is a 10' surf rod by St Croix is overkill? I saw some large striped bass in there, I am going to my mount my Abu Garcia 6500C3 on it.

 

 

 

 

 

 

I think a long rod would be fine in that area. The river spots I fish involve casting around brush and trees, I would never get a cast out with a 10' rod. But that spot looks clear of obstructions so go as long as you want, however you should match your tackle to the fish.

I also been looking at getting a St Croix Wild River 8'6'' H action casting rod.

It's not overkill. People use them in the tailrace below Lake Wateree, SC. It helps bank-bound fishermen cast way up to the dam and has plenty of line for when they strike and run downriver.

BTW, a cheaper alternative to a big surfcasting reel is that BPS. It holds 210 yds of 30#. But  I have 20# on mine and it ate up a 300 yd spool. $50.

I just need a surf rod, I got a reel. A Abu Garcia 6500C3.