for shallow seabass I love to use a 7' light-medium trout rod with a sensitive tip and spinning reel with 6# line. I typically find kelp and cast a jig at them. Its great action with 2-3lb bass

Some of the funnest fishing I've had is in the spring when the bass are feeding "on top". It can really be a hoot on light gear. If you only have one light rod on the boat, everyone will want to use it. That said, I'd still consider 8-12# line on a medium rod to be light. If a ling grabs it, you still want to have a chance.