The 'best' doesn't necessarily have to cost the most. Go down to M&D Tackel in Wareham. Talk to Mike Thomas. Have him build you a custom rod on a 9' Sabre graphite blank #1089. If he builds it, it costs about $125. If you undertake the project yourself its about $85 for components. MIke will give you all the info you need to build the rod. It easy and fun. Once you build your own rod you'll never buy a prduction rod again.
Get an Abu 6500/6600 reel. They come in many models. Mike can tell you what you need. Get some 20# mono line and some 40 or 50# leader material and some short shank bronzed 5/0 hooks.
You'll have a great rig for under $200 (depending on your reel choice) theat is light, sensitive and easy to learn to cast.
JUst mix salt water and stripers and you are off in the fast lane.