Hey NC! 6'6" is fine. use any line over 10 pounds on a baitcaster. if you're using a spinning reel, you'll have to read the specs that are printed on the side of the spool. You do not want to go any heavier than 10 pound test on a spinning reel. the line has a tendency to peel off all by it's self while casting after the bait has landed.
I use a baitcasting reel with a 6'6"trigger rod loaded with 15 pound p-line. I know that flourocarbon line sinks, but my Johhny Morris reel keeps the line tight(fast retrieve ratio) to keep that buzzbait on top. the baitcaster also allows for a "soft" landing on the water because you are thumbing the spool and controlling the outgoing line.
I know a lot of people are uncomfortable with a baitcaster, but on Saguaro lake there is plenty of water to practice on. On Pleasant, you need to be a little more accurate or you'll wrap that sucker 4 times around a branch. So I use a spinning reel on Pleasant. Baitcaster on Saguaro.
I'm not suggesting to go out and buy a baitcaster, use what you have. Check the specs on your pole too. There should be a line and lure spec just above the handle. You could go heavier on the buzzbait. Also, is your line filled to the top of the spool or close to the top? If your spool is half-filled, that may affect your casting distance as well.
I like the Yamamoto buzzbaits. They're louder and the skirts are better than most.
Pray for Wayne & me, the MBC TMX is this Saturday. We're fishing against the best, d a , Delw, and few other rowdies that post on here. We only caught 27 fish yesterday, but it was cloudy and the weather was perfect. On Saturday, it's a whole new ballgame! Sunny and warm. :twisted: :twisted: :wink: