I'm in the market for a new rod that will be well rounded for baits with treble hooks.  I know most people have several different rods for various cranking and top water but I'm looking for a jack of all trades as I normally only take 2-4 rods when I go out.  What I'm looking for is something that I can throw poppers, lipless cranks, squarebills and sammys on, baits ranging from 3/8-5/8.  The rods I've been looking at are the St croix avid 6'6 mhm, abu veritas winch 7' m, and dobyns 685cb.  I am open to any suggestions, and any input is greatly appreciated.  I would like to keep the rod under 200$ and preferably a rod shorter than 7'

Check out Powell diesel glass rod at TW. 7' long has a short enough handle that would be great with poppers and top waters with trebles. I use mine mainly for squarebills and lipless cranks. It would also do good with hard jerkbaits. I love throwing a square bill on it. They are priced at 59$. It's a great rod for price.

I would shell out the extra $50 and get me a GLoomis CBR785 or get me the GL2 CBR784/5 at exactly $200.

You'll want a fast action for most of those

I prefer Moderate Action

 

http://www.bassresource.com/fishing_lures/pinnacle-optimus-xlt-dhc-review.html

 For treble hooks baits You need to get either a medium heavy-Mod-fast Action  graphite rod or a Medium-Fast Action graphite rod.

I would say graphite MH F in a 6'8"-7' length. I would personally not throw squarebills, lipless, or topwaters on a moderate action glass rod. 

I'm old school, don't think it makes a difference, setting the hook isn't too difficult with any rod.  The only technique rod I would have is one specifically designed for butterfly jigging, your back will thank you.