mid range surf combo

[thebradster73]

hey guys and gals!
I was hoping you guys could give me some suggestions on a rod/reel that would hold up well in surf conditions, I take pretty good care of my gear too. I do most of my surf fishing in the Pinellas county are along the gulf beaches; reddington, IRB, Clearwater, etc. I mostly use a 7' st Croix triumph with a 2500 Daiwa procyon. I LOVE this combo for fishing between the shore and the sand bar, however I would like to be able to get to the backside of the bar, I'm thinking a 8 or 9 foot rod? Ill mostly be using live or cut bait, and some occasionally throwing some spoons for mackerel. The length of the rod is what I'm most caught up on as I want some reach but I still want some sport if I hook a whiting or small ladyfish. I'm looking to spend 125-150 on the rod and maybe up to 200 for a nice reel. Thanks!