Originally Posted by
DarkShadow
The inherent problem about an 'all around' rod for bass fishing is the fact that the type of rod you look for when fishing crankbaits, is the complete opposite (in terms of action) that you look for when fishing bottom contact baits.
For cranks, anglers look for slower action rods, to reduce the impact made when a fish hits the bait (since you will probably not have any slack line) thus cushioning the strike, and not allowing the treble hooks to be ripped outta a fish's mouth during the fight.
For jigs/plastics, anglers usually prefer fast or extra fast rods, because you need the hookset to pierce a fish's mouth, especially since you will most likely have some slack in your line.
As far as power, it really depends on what weight your baits will be. If you're going to be using 'finesse' type cranks, you may steer towards Medium power. If you throw slightly bigger cranks (3/8 to 1/2 ounce), you should probably go up in power to at least something in the MH range.
As far as size? Unless you're in 1984 where 5'6" rods were all the craze, a 7 to 7'2" would suffice nicely. Gets you sufficient casting distance and has the leverage to turn any fish.
As far as your price range? While I agree with others that the entry level Shimanos are probably your best bet, realize that with this price range, you're going to be sacrificing sensitivity, which IMHO, can be the difference between catching fish and not catching fish (when fishing plastics). If you're primarily fishing cranks, sensitivity is probably not a factor. Just something to think about if you plan on using bottom bouncing techniques. I've seen guys lines *jump* when they're fishing, indicating a bite, yet they don't even feel it thanks to the rods that they are using that double as their trout jigging rods.