Tim down at the Gun Shack in Mt Airy is a great guy. He runs the archery shop. You may also want to go up to Mayberry Archers just west of Westminster on your way to Taneytown.
Just did the same thing 3 weeks ago. Bought two Offshore Angler 9ft rod and reel combos at Bass Pro Shops for $90 a piece. My wife and I used them every day in the surf at Carova Beach, NC. Caught snapper blues, flounder, spot and kingfish. The combos worked great even after getting dunked in...
I think it is a great idea. I am currently building a LR 6.5 Creedmoor. Almost done. Looking forward to shooting it. You could always come out to Mayberry and shoot some steel. 1st Sunday of the month. Out to 600 yards.