Is there anything that can be considered close to an "all purpose" spinning rod?  I'm thinking about picking something to up to keep at work. Texas Rigged Plastics for sure, but maybe some jerks / cranks too?  Am I dreaming?   I know application specific is great, but to just pick one......Price would hopefully be in the 100-130 range. 

 

What would you look for if you could have only 1 (Spinning) rod?

 

 

If only 1 it would be a 7' MH, 2500 size reel spooled with Power Pro Super Slick in 15 lb with a 12 lb fluoro leader.

7' M/F or MH/F depending on what techniques you fish the most. Just back off on the drag for treble hook lures. There are plenty of rods in the $100 range so find one that is comfortable for you.

If only 1 it would be a 7' MH, 2500 size reel spooled with Power Pro Super Slick in 15 lb with a 12 lb fluoro leader.

Agreed completely (except for the fluoro leader). This matches my favorite spinning set up.

As for length, that's a subjective choice (I happen to like shorter rods). But for what you indicate throwing, M/F or MH/F since you're throwing cranks, too. If just plastics and jigs, I'd go XF. 2500 is a great all-around size spinning reel. For me it's a 1000 - 2000 size. Again, it's all subjective. Just my .02.

I've got seven rods and 60% of the time I'm using my Mojo Bass paired with an Abu Garcia Cardinal SX (hell of a reel for $40). The rod is a 7' M/F and the reel has 8lb Sufix Elite on it. Other than frogging and heavy jigging, I am 100% comfortable using this rod for any purpose.

I had a Mojo 6' 8" M/F "Wacky Style" that was the best all around spinning rod I've ever owned. It got fished right along side my LTB's until, like the dummy I sometimes am, I tried to swing too big of a fish with it and it snapped   I'd have no problems buying another if I ever had some extra money to buy one. 

7'm/f Tatula rod is pretty versatile for me. Depending on the size of the baits in question, I'd consider a MH though.

i like my 6'8"MXF. for pretty much everything.  Theo nly thing it won't do well is the heavier jigs and texas rigged soft plastics.  It does work well for weightless soft plastics, shaky heads, jerkbaits etc..

If you are picking out one rod, then I am assuming you are fishing from shore. I would suggest a shorter rod, because it would be easier for fish in certain areas. I would go with GL2 Worm/Jig 803SJWR, and Shimano Stradic 2500 size reel spool with 20 lb 832 in high vis along with a leader of your choice.

Check out an Fenwick Aetos M/F - very versatile rod. if you look around you can find one in your price range.  If not, check out the Elite Tech M/XF, another versatile rod. 

Thanks for all the suggestions!  I think I have a good direction to go in now!