i've been using the power pro braid, it's been good so far. but I've heard good things about suffix too, i might try using some of their line more often as it is a little cheaper. Right now i'm using some of their mono line for leader material and it has been pretty good. I actually really like my ugly stick combo (6'6") it's been a decent rod/reel combo for my inshore fishing. I also recently got a 7' Lews inshore mach speed II rod and have been loving it. the Winn grips are great and the rod has good action but still a strong backbone. I recently decided to give the kastking sharky II reel a try since i do some kayak fishing and the reel could get dipped in water. the Reel claims to be waterproof. So far i haven't had any issues with it, but i've only caught two catfish with it, so still needs to be put to the test. For baits i use DOA and Berkely Gulp mostly for soft plastics and I like the Rapala X-Rap for top water (but i'm new to top water, and i haven't caught a fish with top water yet).
i guess to answer your question. No i don't have a specific brand i like over others, i just go with what will help me get outside and hopefully catch some fish. I'm still kinda new to some of this stuff so i'm getting a feel for what i like and don't like.