Go with baitcasting...
This is the rod I use also,it is designated as the TWS (top water special)and was designed by Zell Rowland.It was designed to throw 1/4 oz Pop-R baits but as mentioned it can double as a crankbait rod. The rod is a lighter power than a MF but heavier than a ML.I have tried a MF baitcasting rod for Pop-R's but it does not do it as well as the TWS.Good all around rod you can get pretty reasonable(new $49.99)
T