For next season I want to throw more jerkbaits, rattle baits and crankbaits and spinner baits.  I want to do this using only spinning reels.  Any rods in the $150 or under range that are for spinning reels and would be good for jerkbaits/crankbaits and maybe a little top water?  

 

 Thanks much! 

Any 6'6" to 7' M/Fast or M/XF rod.  I personally don't use a spinning set up for any of those techniques but if that is what you prefer I think you can manage with what I recommended. 

Definitely go with an XF action. Slower actions load up more and move the bait too far. XF you have the option for quicker shorter movement as it loads up quicker and moves the bait less.

I would look for a M/XF rod. Many recommend an AVS68MXF or CUSX68M for this price range and purpose. Buy during the upcoming sales.

I use 6'6" rods with M power and F action as general purpose rods. I find them very versatile.

I use a 7' Medium Fast action fenwick HMG...Right around $100 and does great for rebel crawfish, zara puppys, and smaller buzzbaits. I've been known to break a rod or two lol, and every fenwick I own has been very durable.

For $100 I would also give the M/XF Fenwick elite tech smallmouth rod a good look.

Fishing a jerk bait I don't think the rod is not overly critical, any all purpose and length will work just fine, what ever you are comfortable with.  More important is how you fish a jerkbait, I basically just take up slack with the reel and move the bait with arm movements and pauses, the pauses are when I get most of the strikes.  I fish a $55 7' med in high banked canals and in ponds I use a $75 6'6 ml, shouldn't need anything too specialized to set the hook with a jerkbait, the fish are coming to strike, not like dragging a bottom bait.