That outfit should work fine for the type of fishing you are planning. I have the Three Forks 3 wt. that I have used for several years, and of my many rods, it is one of my favorites. Since most of the places I use it don't require any long casts, I usually use 4 wt. line on it. If you're going after bass, and need to cast some larger or heavier flies or bugs, you might find it easier to do with a 6 weight line. With this outfit you will have no problem with panfish, but considering that you are in the South, there may be some bass in those ponds that could overpower your outfit until you get used to playing them. I've had some bass on that would have been a challenge for my 8 wt. rod. Whatever you do, don't try to play the fish with your rod held high. Check out some of the articles on here regarding playing fish. Might save you from buying a new rod before you're ready. Have fun.

Larry Compton