Most people out here fish 2 speed reels, but i stick w/ single speed. Less to break easier to repair. As far as a stand of go's and single speed reels, just start playing the angles. Never had a problem w/ that.
For brand, 50w's and lower Shimano
Tiagras/TLD's, or even the
Avets. 80 and up penn, just because od the rod clamps that they come with that the Shimano's dont.
I stick w/ kai akua about wind-ons. I prefer the leader, less to break and simpler, i also like to pull on em one-on-one.