Jay, there is no "best rod" per se. It really comes down to what you like and more importantly, what you can actually handle. The Expedition is't designed for popping, it is a jigging reel but it is useable (although a bit tiring) for popping. Rather than go through the whole gamut of rods that are available, perhaps the best thing you could do is do some reading of threads that are already on this forum. You'll find plenty of information on this site. Perhaps the best advice I can give you is to do your research and find a rod that suits you, not someone who weighs 120kgs and bench presses what Arnold Schwarzenegger does.
Btw, I really don't think a 6500EXP is the reel for black bass. It might have some trouble casting 30g minnows.