On calmer days in less than 25 foot of water I use a 4’6” St Croix ultra-light with 4lb mono. I have my drag set light because like Wakina alluded to, a big sheephead will ruin the moment during a good bite. I have heard nothing but good about using braided but I have a ton of the 4lb mono and haven’t had of a reason to change. On rougher days or in water deeper than 25 foot especially in your 40’ plus depth ranges (Lucy’s Point, Or just SW of the red can at Gull) I use a 6 foot UL Fenwick Venture with the same 4lb mono. The longer rod provides more backbone for those deep water hookups.

I have tried many of the different perch rigs over the years but my favorite is the long wire rig with no bling that has the three branching arms that you attach your hooks of choice to. ½ ounce flat weight on calm days, ¾ - 1 oz on rough days.

It’s all a matter of personal preference.