Can't answer all your questions but on rods you can get Pinnacal limit rods from Grizzly Jig or Monks crappie. They are limber and tough and cheap. They come in 8/10 and 12. Get 4 for 60.00 dollars and Grizzly will let you add rods at that same price. Lots of guys who longline troll use them.
Never used those particular jig's but any good curly tail should work. I was given some Strike King baits with the rage tail I have done well with. You will just have to experiment with colors. Don't limit yourself. I would think overcast would be best fishing that shallow.
Minnows should work well also. Know a couple of guys in Alabama that won't troll without them.
Hope this helps some.
Also monks sells some inexpensive Schimano spinning reels that work well.
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Charlie Weaver USN/ENC 1965-1979