I know its abit late but.... I use a Berkley Air IM7 rod for my surf fishing when going for perch. 8 1/2 ft, 8-12lb rated for steelheading. Not quite an ul but it handles fine with 6lb. I love it, but i don't use it for larger baits or fish beyond perch really. I prefer a baitbaster, but I use an 6'6" medium Shimano cheapie setup for my 8lb setup on smaller swimbaits and jerkbaits. Works fine
I actually like 2 pieces bcz I can get them in a smaller car for traveling to the beach :-) Good luck!