3-4 oz topwater lure for striped bass Charter Grade Popper: 3/4oz Best Striped Bass Lures -

The low seating on the blank and small profile of the reel meant it was no problem clamping my thumb down fully over the spool

This is another place where a shorter rod can help because you are constantly jerking the rod down towards the water

Daiwa Tatula Elite Spinning Reel The Daiwa Tatula Elite Spinning Reel, featuring a Zaion Compact Body, Zaion V Airdrive Rotor, Airdrive Bail, Tough Digigear, Machined Aluminum Screw-in Handle, and 2BB ATD technology, delivers top-tier precision and performance for anglers seeking lightweight durability in the most challenging conditions

Seaguar Blue is a bit stiff when compared to some other newer models, and not the thinnest line available, but many anglers prefer this

then this is one to try