I have that exact rod, Hardy Jet 9'6" #7. Highly recommend it! The best I've owned/used!
I use it mainly for sea trout in river, not sitting in a boat!
When I got it I tried it with a Barrio slx #8 float, that I already had... worked very well, but felt a wee bit heavy when overhead casting. So I bought another Barrio slx floater in a 7 weight... felt just right! However because I sometimes put on a slow sink polyleader, I think I'm going to order a Mallard sink tip to try... just for something different!
I did look at a Rio intouch, but the Perception not the Grand. Maybe another time.
PS. I'm a year off retiring, so I say go for it, treat yourself and enjoy whatever you get!
Sorry, didn't notice the original post date... only two months late wi reply