As mentioned, I would use that rod for single hook presentations - jigs, plastics, spinnerbaits, etc. The only topwaters I would really use it for would be a buzzbait or plastic toad, maybe a frog. For cranks, I want a moderate action rod. For topwaters with treble hooks (walking baits, etc.) I also like a moderate action and shorter that 7'. I'm not saying a 7' MH/F won't work, but its definitely not my first choice for cranks or most topwaters.

Regarless of the brands you choose, these are suggestions for Power and Action:

 

Topwater: MH/ F with a soft tip

 

Small swimbaits & swim jigs: M/ F

 

Shallow crankbaits: M/ Moderate

 

Deep crankbaits: H/ Moderate or Slow

 

Jigs and soft plastics: MH/ F or XF with a firm tip

Regarless of the brands you choose, these are suggestions for Power and Action:

Topwater: MH/ F with a soft tip

Small swimbaits & swim jigs: M/ F

Shallow crankbaits: M/ Moderate

Deep crankbaits: H/ Moderate or Slow

Jigs and soft plastics: MH/ F or XF with a firm tip

Very good recommendation for the general use tab. While the technique and rod may vary from person to person, as may the length, the general power and taper is right on.

Medium XFAST rods are extremely versatile. Let's take a 6-8 MXF avid casting. A perfect rod to fish jerkbaits, top waters, senkos, light finesse jigs, small swim jigs and small spinnerbaits. Also a super rod for flukes, light Texas rigs in open water, even for a heavier drop shot. The name doesn't necessarily mean a lot- the length, action, and taper are the most important. A 7-1 or 7-2 MH XFAST is a super jig rod, and will fish almost all of your Texas rigs and other plastics.

Don't get caught upon technique specific rods. One of the best "jig rods" ever made is also a phenomenal rod for heavy TX rigs and big spinnerbaits. Oh, and I have a spinnerbait rod that is the most excellent jerkbait and top water rod...

Thanks to everyone for your help. I have a better starting point now.

A while back I purchased a few baitcaster New rods that are 5'6" long.

Now I'm looking at New bait caster rods and don't see anything shorter

than 6'6"? The longer rods are for making longer casts. And more power on the hook sets right?

Casting distance, steering fish around sides of the boat, moving more line on the hook set for better hook penetration.