Hi folks

I'm just getting into freshwater fishing, it's a whole new experience
for me. All I have is big sal****er gear, so I need to get new stuff...

Any suggestions?
I'm in southern Vermont, going for trout, bullheads, maybe panfish. No
boat, all shore casting at ponds and streams. Should I be looking for a
6' rod or so, bigger, smaller? I'm guessing 8lb test is probably about
right. Wally world has a 5'10" Ugly Stick with reel for $30...

Thanks!
-ben