If you all haven't tried a lighter rod with a faster tip for walking baits you should.  MXF works great, doesn't wear you out, and is flexy enough to keep the fish buttoned on the hooks.  

13 Fishing makes a great Medium powered rod in various lines, I use a discontinued 13 Fishing Fate Chrome 6'7" Medium Fast.  It's got enough tip to walk easily and enough flex to keep small trebles pinned.

Dobyns 7 foot crankbait rods works great for me but I'm taller than most. I run the 705cb with 40lb braid for 3/4oz or lighter lures. For bigger stuff 3/4oz on up to 1.5oz the 706cb with mono works a charm. Sounds like you want something shorter now though, I think any 6'6" medium heavy/fast will do what you want, go with the brand your'e familiar with.

On 3/4/2022 at 10:19 AM, Bankc said:

Ditto.  Well, I also use the 5'5" pistol grip for poppers.  

 

Though really, it's personal preference.  It all depends on how high your boat sits above the water, how tall you are, what angle you like to hold your rod, and what you're comfortable using.  Even the action isn't standard.  A lot of people like extra-fast for these lures, to give them more snap.  I like moderate speed rods, because I don't have an issue with the snap, but I do have an issue with keeping fish pinned on those treble hooks.  

This is informative and spot on.

I can only efficiently walk a bait while standing with rod tip down. I can do it sitting but not nearly as well.