re: Ride the Bull Kayak Tournament - Advice Requested

If you can I'd definitely look at a larger reel and heavier rod, something like a 6000 series spinning reel would be best, even if it's a cheap combo. If using lighter equipment/line you could be fighting a fish for an hour and tangled up in everyone. Mine is spooled with 50lb braid and a 50lb leader.

Have fun, it's usually hot as hell so bring plenty water. RTB is nothing like a normal kayak tournament, it's more like a fish lottery than any sort of test of fishing skills.