Help with mid

I have been trying out some different mids in normals (Ekko, Ahri, Morgana, Talon, Pantheon, and Malphite). I like the play style of Ekko, but it is hard to do well in early lane since he is melee and often gets poked heavily (I might try him out in the jungle). What mid laners does Ekko generally do well against? I think I'll save picking Ekko for when I am at the bottom of champ select and know who the opposing mid laner is. In that sense, what is a really good "safe" pick for first pick mid? I know the old League adage that it is better to play a champ you know than experiment with counters, but I am experimenting with mid right now so I would like a solid first pick mid champ.

P.S. if you are willing to give me some pointers what is a good way to farm and trade with Ekko in early lane phase? I have trouble farming with his Q and am not sure exactly how to utilize it for optimum effectiveness. Also what are some strategies to using his W and E?

-Best