I use shorter rods on a pier, heavers on land. Shorter rods are better on a pier for weaving through everyone who has'nt pulled their lines, better for leverage too. A good cobia (pier) rod should be 4.5-6.5 ft, good flex, with enought a** to turn a 70 pound fish when he runs for the pilings. They will try about every time, and once wrapped, they realize you can't pull them up. I think the rod should be a hybrid: stiffer than inshore, lighter than offshore, like a rockfish troller, but castable. I'm not good with names. The lightest 'stand up' rods, with no roller guides are good. I have a Penn oceanmaster (45$) and bigwater ugly stick (65$). I bought a couple graphite ugly sticks for flounder/trout rods to double up if I feel lucky. They are light enough to feel a flounder nibble, yet will lift 60 pounds if needed. I use 30-50 pound braid for dual use. I hope this helps on the pier. I love Ticas in the surf.
By the way: Where can I get ticas without going to NC?