There are 2 rods that have not been mentioned that are great smallmouth rods. The first is from the Mystic Rob company in Michigan, their Reaper series. The second would be the Shore Stalker from Loomis designed by Dave Whitlock that are 8'6" rods.

But probably the most important thing I think you can do is change lines that you are using, the GPX it's a great summer line but it seems to tango a lot and get stuff for me in the fall when the water temperatures drop. A line that I think you should consider is the Wulff Bass line in whatever weight way you choose. The RIO Grand is another possibility a great versatile all-around line. Fishin, Jimmy