Best rod power/action for these techniques

[EGbassing]

I'm looking to get a new rod for Christmas. I currently have a ML/F and a MH/F. I want a baitcaster that I can fish jerkbaits, flukes, finesse T-rigs, shaky heads, and lipless cranks on. What rod power/action would cover those best? I was initially going to get a Medium/Moderate but it occurred to me that a moderate action wouldn't be best for shaky heads, flukes, etc. so I don't know what I know now. ? Any advice?

[junyer357]

The ml/f you have would be ok for the t-rig/shakey if you keep it to light finesse weights and sizes. It may work ok for flukes as well if it has good tip action.

I would look for a med-mod rod for throwing the jerkbaits and it will handle smaller weight lipless as well.  I do reccomend one with a shorter butt, its easier to work a jerkbait whwn the rod isnt hitting you in the side. 

 

 

 

[bigbassin']

I use the same medium/fast rod with 12 lb mono for all of those techniques, with the exception being I'll occasionally step up to a mh/f for flukes if I'm around a lot of brush/laydowns and want to get the fish turned immediately.

[Junger]

I think you need to add where you're throwing these lures too, such as cover, rocks, grass, etc. That can alter how much power or tip you'll need as well...IMO.

[J Francho]

A 7' medium power, fast taper will work for all that.

[fishwizzard]

I use a M/XF for all of those lures other then a lipless crank.  

[Boomstick]

2 hours ago, J Francho said:

A 7' medium power, fast taper will work for all that.

That's what I was thinking too

[NittyGrittyBoy]

I use a mh/f 6'6 dobyns for my fluke fishing

 

6'6 mh duckett for jerkbait fishing 

 

I'm partial to a 6'6

[MickD]

If easy and effective casting is a priority, then match the power of the rod to the weight of the lures you intend to cast.  It has to load properly to cast properly.  From there, you go to action.  I think fast is the default action for most techniques.  It is very versatile, and with proper fisherman technique, can do anything.

[EGbassing]

3 hours ago, J Francho said:

A 7' medium power, fast taper will work for all that.

Thanks. Would that be preferred for jerkbaits/lipless crankbaits, or would a moderate action be better?

[J Francho]

I use a shorter, extra fast rod for anything that requires a rod tip down, twitch retrieve, though an all purpose 7' MF will work fine as well.  Slower tapers don't work great when twitching.  Not as much tip control.