RE: What kind of gear do I really need.
By the sounds of it you will be bank fishing, I would get a Shamino Curcial spinning rod, about $140ish, life time warranty, great rod and a Shamino Rell maybe a Symtre, I like Shamino gear it has been around a while and lasts the test of time..Just my .2c worth
You should sign up for the Tournament this year