Pike rod and reel recommendations

I spend most of my time trolling for pike and have a guide series 7'6" MH rod that I have been using for that and really like. I would like to get into casting and jigging heavier baits more, particularly things like Bondy bait. I know he recommends an 8' heavy for jigging, same apply for casting big baits like those? Also any significant advantage to the baitcaster over spinning reel? I am not at all familiar with bait casters and like my spinning reel. Any good combos out there guys like to use? Appreciate any opinions

Pike rod and reel recommendations