Spinning reels for those applications might typically be called 1000, 1500, 2000, 2500, 3000. There isn't really an industry 'standard' or definition, but once you've handled a few different ones, you can make a reasonable ballpark guess as to what say, a 2000 size reel might look like. I used to buy larger reels, but I've since moved to smaller ones, mostly.
Since you're going to BPS, take the time to handle a couple different size reels on the rod you will be using.
Don't pay much attention to what the clerk has to say....IMO, most that I've talked with are full of crap.
For me, size and balance are important, but probably most important is smooth drag -- but that can be hard to assess until you get one spooled up.
As I said earlier, most any Shimano, Daiwa or Pflueger at $75 should suit you just fine.
