I'm almost a full year into my fishing hobby - with varying levels of success.  I'm now doing research on my first baitcaster so I can utilize heavier/bigger lures like simwbaits and the like.

 

Here's my question - my spinning setup covers the 1/8oz-1/2oz range.  What range should I look for in a general purpose baitcasting rod?  1oz?  3/4-1 1/2?  

 

Thanks!

Id recommend a medium heavy so around 1/4- 3/4. And a heavy around 1/2- 1 1/2. With those 2 rods you would have most situations covered

I agree a 6'8" to 7'3" MH 1/4 to 3/4 is probably the most versatile rod for basic bass fishing.

Take a look at a rod like a Powell Max3D 683 CEF or a Max3D 723 CEF.  They will run $159,  They also make the same rod in the Inferno series  683 CEF and a 703 CEF. They run $100.

You should go withe a 7' medium heavy which is a great all around rod.  Fitzgerald Rods Vursa series has around 13 different models that are great rods and priced well at $129.  Their 7' MH and 7'3" M  are great all around rods that would suit you well.  I use the 7' MH for Chatterbaits, spinnerbaits, some jig and worms and topwater occasionally.  

A 7' Medium Heavy, Fast Action is a great all around rod and will cover your weight range.  Figure out how much you want to spend, and see what is available in that price range.