What is my rod/reel combo best used for?

[brybell]

Hello! I am brand new to the forum.

I grew up in Northern California, and did a fair amount of bass fishing with my dad.

Now, I am fishing without my dad, and realizing I have a lot to learn! I just got a new 6'6 Fenwick medium-fast rod (I really wanted a 2-piece, 7' med-heavy, but the 2piece was hard to find at my price point) and an Abu Garcia Pro Max 7.1:1 baitcaster. I got this because I was using an old setup from my dad that really needed replacing. I also recently got the Daiwa Revros spinning combo.

My friend I fish with a lot asked me "what are you trying to use it for?" regarding the baitcaster, and I felt stupid when I said I wasn't sure. So, my question is what is this setup best for? What will give me the most "bang for the buck" if you will. I just don't want to be trying casting stuff with it that it isn't really meant for.

For example, is it best for worms, jerbaits, finesse etc etc.

Any and all help is greatly appreciated! Thanks!

[roadwarrior]

The baitcaster can be used for any lure with a weight inside the rod specifications. That is probably 1/4 - 5/8 ounce.

Your spinning outfit is best suited for light weight or weightless presentations.

 

[lmbfisherman]

Your setup can be used for everything.  A medium fast rod is a great all around rod.  I would even use it for crank baits in a pinch.  Welcome to the addiction.

[Cgrinder]

You'll probably have issues in heavy pads and with lighter cranks. So I wouldn't  use it for frogs or shad raps but a medium power fast rod will do a lot. Probably also wouldn't be trying to set stout jig hooks with it. 

If you're looking  for ideal presentations, Senko, Texas rigs 1/4 and under, light wire swim jigs, finesse jigs, 4" swimbaits like a Keitech, spinnerbaits without big Colorado blades, 3/8 Oz squarebills, smaller walking top waters, pop r's, and super flukes. Of course there are more almost ideal techniques but I'm sure you get the idea. 

[Fisher-O-men]

Why did you want a 2-piece?

[brybell]

9 minutes ago, Fisher-O-men said:

Why did you want a 2-piece?

Just because I live in an apartment, and have a sedan, not a truck. I fish a lot and don't really want to have to be constantly putting the back seat up and down, plus i like keeping the rods in the trunk just in case. Not having a garage and a truck is a real drag :\

Are there any downsides of having a 2-piece?

[Fisher-O-men]

1 hour ago, brybell said:

Are there any downsides of having a 2-piece?

Not nearly as sensitive.

[brybell]

1 minute ago, Fisher-O-men said:

Not nearly as sensitive.

Good to know. As I expand the number of rods and reels I own, I suppose I will have to look at 1-piece even if it less convenient.